Extra-long formal procedure that consumes lots of time, strict adherence to certain rules and regulations
Etymology:
- Lawyers and government officials used red ribbons to tie various documents and files. Before devising any further business activities, it was significant to cut the red tape. However, this phrase is now used to express needless delay in any official or organizational activity that’s time consuming as well.
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It’d be better for the managing director to cut the red tape and start the formal working procedure.
Submitted on February 25, 2019
Additional definitions for 'Red Tape':
| red tape | A derisive term for regulations or bureaucratic procedures that are considered excessive or excessively time- and effort-consuming. |
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"Red Tape." Phrases.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 21 Dec. 2024. <https://www.phrases.com/phrase/red-tape_44984>.
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