red tape

noun

1. excessive formality and routine required before official action can be taken.

red tape

noun

1. obstructive official routine or procedure; time-consuming bureaucracy

red tape

¹

1. Bureaucratic procedures that delay progress: “Paula had hoped to settle the inheritance quickly but got caught up in a lot of red tape.”

red tape

²

1. Administrative procedures, especially in a bureaucracy , that are marked by complexity and delay: “Red tape delayed his passport.”

Other Words From

• redtapism noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of red tape¹

First recorded in 1730–40; after the red tape used to tie official documents

Word History and Origins

Origin of red tape¹

C18: from the red tape used to bind official government documents

Idioms and Phrases

Official forms and procedures, especially those that are complex and time-consuming. For example, There's so much red tape involved in approving our remodeling that we're tempted to postpone it indefinitely . This expression alludes to the former British custom of tying up official documents with red ribbon. [Early 1800s]

Example Sentences

He predicted that Musk and Ramaswamy will become bored and quit their advisory roles because of the massive red tape involved in changing the government.

From Salon

He adds that though Musk's primary role will be "slashing through the thicket of red tape that is the US federal government", his position will also give him influence in the new administration.

From BBC

And his economic vision includes reducing bureaucratic red tape that makes it harder for businesses to succeed, while transforming empty commercial space for artists, nightlife and other creative industries.

From Los Angeles Times

Her emergency declaration enabled the city to cut through bureaucratic red tape to more quickly move people off the streets and into shelter and services.

From Los Angeles Times

"I'm determined to bulldoze bureaucracy and cut red tape so we can free up GPs," he will say.

From BBC

Related Words

• bureaucracy