red tape

noun
UK: /ˌred ˈteɪp/
US: /ˌred ˈteɪp/

  1. Official rules and processes that seem unnecessary and cause delays.

    1. The project was delayed because of too much red tape.
    2. We need to cut through the red tape and get this deal finalized quickly to meet our goals.

  2. Unnecessary rules and procedures that make something difficult to do.

    1. I tried to get a permit, but there's so much red tape involved.
    2. The company faces considerable red tape when attempting to export goods overseas.

Synonyms

bureaucracy officialdom formality paperwork

Frequently Asked Questions

The word "red tape" in English means: Official rules and processes that seem unnecessary and cause delays., Unnecessary rules and procedures that make something difficult to do..

The phonetic transcription of "red tape" is /ˌred ˈteɪp/ in British English and /ˌred ˈteɪp/ in American English. Click the 🔊 button to hear both pronunciations.

Synonyms for "red tape": bureaucracy, officialdom, formality, paperwork.

Example usage of "red tape": "The project was delayed because of too much red tape.". More examples on the page.