going through the motions
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
"But, in the moment, when you're going through the motions, I wish people wouldn't say that, because it hurts."
From BBC ● Apr. 3, 2026
Mr. Bennett, age 91, and Mr. Hytner, 69, seem to be going through the motions with this effort, which feels like a forgettable Sunday-night PBS presentation.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 24, 2025
He was calling Speaker Mike Johnson, who was going through the motions of saying hello to patrons who had shown up for an early lunch.
From Slate ● Dec. 2, 2025
What an incredible way to spend your time, because I've had other jobs that have felt like going through the motions or whatever.
From Salon ● Apr. 17, 2025
His father was a stranger during those terrible days, like a sleepwalker going through the motions, like a puppet being maneuvered by invisible strings.
From "The Chocolate War" by Robert Cormier
