what does the expression ''going through the motions'' mean??

Answer 1

It means you're doing something subconsciously and are on auto pilot versus doing something intentionally and with meaning.

EXAMPLES:

1.) After 42 years of teaching, Susan had gotten used to going through the motions, and no longer planned her lessons in detail, but followed the bare lesson plan.

2.) Sometimes sex isn't as passionate anymore and it feels like we're just going through the motions, instead of making love.

3.) When John wakes up he goes through the motions of getting ready without even waking up fully.

Answer 2

Going Through The Motions

Answer 3

From my personal experience, I believe that it means doing what I know has to be done, but not doing what I want to do. An example of that is being in a situation that I don't want to be in, but staying in that situation for a more important reason.......

Answer 4

Doing what has to be done but your mind and heart are somewhere else.

For example, your spouse dies. You still get up in the morning, you eat, you go to work, you come home. Because you have to. But you are just 'going thru the motions."

Answer 5

I believe it means going about a task for show because it is expected of you rather than because it is absolutely necessary but I could be completely wrong!

Answer 6

I'll tell you that one when you get a little bit older : )

Answer 7

Depends on the context, but normally means someone is blindly or mechanically responding.

Answer 8

It means to do something in almost a mechanical way and you actually have little interest or excitement about what you are doing.

Answer 9

It means doing it without thought.

Answer 10

You are putting on a show, but there is no heart in what you are doing