red-tapist

A red-tapist insists on three forms before approving the simple request.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A person who adheres excessively to official rules and bureaucracy: "red-tapist" refers to an individual, especially in a government or administrative context, who insists on strict compliance with complex procedures and paperwork, often causing delays or inefficiency.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The application was delayed because the red-tapist in the office demanded additional documents that were not required. (A bureaucrat who follows rules rigidly, causing unnecessary obstacles.)
  • She was known as a red-tapist, always citing obscure regulations before approving any request. (Someone who prioritizes bureaucratic formalities over practical needs.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be a red-tapist": to habitually enforce bureaucratic rules without flexibility.
  • In many organizations, a red-tapist can hinder innovation by insisting on outdated procedures. (A person who stifles progress through rigid adherence to rules.)

Variants and Related Words

• Red-tape (noun): excessive bureaucracy or adherence to official rules and formalities.

  • The project was stuck in red-tape for months. (Delayed by bureaucratic procedures.)

• Red-tapism (noun): the practice or system of excessive bureaucracy.

  • Red-tapism in the licensing department frustrates small business owners. (The culture of bureaucratic rigidity.)

Synonyms

• Bureaucrat: an official in a government department, often perceived as following rules rigidly.
• Formalist: someone who insists on strict adherence to forms and procedures.
• Paper-pusher: a colloquial term for an office worker who handles routine paperwork, often implying inefficiency.

Related Idioms

• Red tape: official rules and processes that seem unnecessary and cause delay.
  • To get a permit, you have to cut through a lot of red tape. (Overcome bureaucratic obstacles.)