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 Word Forms

• redtapism 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

Mr Csoka said the prison's approach had been "incomprehensible" and the defence had faced "impenetrable red tape" in getting a laptop to Mr Doyle.

From BBC

In a speech, the minister said British businesses trading with Europe would face "more red tape, mountains of paperwork, and a bureaucratic burden" if Farage followed through on his threat.

From BBC

But he’s the first-year coach at Santa Margarita Catholic High School, his alma mater, and stepping into an elite league of schools while studying not just game tape but reels of red tape.

From Los Angeles Times

Since May, the governor has sought to fast-track the plan by short-cutting permitting for the project and limiting avenues for legal challenges, saying the effort should not be held back by delays and “red tape.”

From Los Angeles Times

The Lower Thames Crossing is the first major building project where a new scheme to cut environmental red tape will be put to the test, ministers have announced.

From BBC

Related Words

• bureaucracy