red-tapism
Definition
Noun: - Excessive adherence to official rules and formalities: "red-tapism" refers to the rigid and often unnecessary following of bureaucratic procedures, especially those that cause delay or inefficiency. It is derived from the practice of tying official documents with red tape.
Usage Examples
- (Bureaucratic red tape and formality caused a significant hold-up.)
- (Excessive official procedures hinder business operations.)
Advanced Usage
"To cut through red-tapism": to bypass or simplify bureaucratic obstacles.
- The new manager promised to cut through red-tapism to speed up approvals. (To remove unnecessary formalities.)
"Red-tapism in action": a situation where bureaucratic rigidity is clearly observed.
- The visa application process was a classic example of red-tapism in action. (A clear display of excessive official procedures.)
Variants and Related Words
Red tape (n): a synonym for "red-tapism", often used interchangeably; refers to bureaucratic procedures or formalities.
- The company faced endless red tape when expanding overseas. (Bureaucratic obstacles.)
Red-tapist (n): a person who practices or supports red-tapism.
- He was labelled a red-tapist for insisting on multiple signatures for a simple request. (A bureaucrat who enforces excessive rules.)
Synonyms
- Bureaucracy: a system of government or management with many rules and processes.
- Formalism: strict adherence to prescribed forms or procedures.
- Officialdom: the officials in an organization, especially when seen as overly formal or slow.
Related Idioms
Caught in the red tape: entangled in bureaucratic procedures.
- The charity was caught in the red tape for months before receiving funding. (Delayed by excessive formalities.)
Red tape paralysis: a state where bureaucracy prevents any progress.
- The local council suffered from red tape paralysis, unable to approve new building permits. (Complete stagnation due to rules.)