red tape
Meaning
Excessive bureaucracy and official rules/paperwork that slow things down.
Origin
Originally referred to the red ribbon used in Britain to bind legal and official documents. By the 19th century it became a metaphor for cumbersome government paperwork and procedures.
Notes
Usually negative: rules and paperwork that are unnecessary or slow. Used for government and also companies/organizations. Common in formal and everyday contexts.
Examples
-
We lost two weeks to red tape before we could start the construction project.
-
I tried to change my address online, but the red tape forced me to visit three different offices.
-
The new policy is meant to cut through red tape and speed up approvals.
-
Small businesses often struggle with red tape when applying for government grants.
-
There’s so much red tape at this company that even simple purchases need multiple signatures.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically an uncountable noun: “deal with red tape,” “cut through red tape,” “reduce red tape.” Often used with articles omitted; rarely pluralized (“red tapes” is uncommon).
Synonyms
- bureaucracy
- paperwork
- bureaucratic hurdles
- officialdom
Antonyms
- efficiency
- streamlined process
- simplicity