Word: Work to Rule
Definition: "Work to rule" is a phrase that means workers are doing only the bare minimum required by their job rules or guidelines. Instead of going above and beyond, they strictly follow the rules, which can slow down productivity and show frustration with their working conditions.
Usage Instructions: - Use "work to rule" when discussing job actions or strategies taken by workers, especially in the context of labor disputes or strikes. - It is often used in discussions about employee rights, union actions, or workplace negotiations.
Example: - "During the contract negotiations, the workers decided to work to rule, only completing the tasks specified in their job descriptions without any extra effort."
Advanced Usage: In more advanced contexts, "work to rule" can be discussed in terms of its impact on workplace dynamics, labor laws, or economic conditions. For example: - "The decision to work to rule has highlighted the need for better communication between management and employees regarding workload expectations."
Word Variants: - There are not many direct variants of "work to rule," but you might encounter related phrases like "job action" or "slowdown," which describe similar concepts.
Different Meaning:While "work to rule" is primarily used in a labor context, the individual words can have different meanings: - "Work" can refer to any activity that involves effort or labor. - "Rule" can refer to a guideline or regulation that governs actions.
Synonyms: - Slowdown - Strike action (in a broader context) - Job action
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs specifically related to "work to rule," but you might hear phrases like "go on strike," which means refusing to work as a form of protest.
Conclusion: "Work to rule" is an important concept in labor relations, highlighting how workers can express their dissatisfaction with conditions by adhering strictly to rules, which can lead to a slowdown in work processes.