red tape
– C1-C2 (advanced) –
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In North American English, this idiom typically means:
(informal; negative connotation: impatience, frustration) the act of documents and tasks being processed in an overly complex manner, often belonging to a government, business, or organization
NOTE:
It is a common mistake among many English learners to say “bureaucracy” instead of “red tape” in general conversations.
In North American English, “bureaucracy” typically means:
(elevated; business/legal jargon) a type of hierarchical, administrative structure within an organization, such as a business or government, including the group of individuals who comprise such a structure
(business/legal jargon) red tape
Remember, informal language is naturally expected among English speakers when communication is among friends, family members, peers, etc. Informal language is understood by the majority of native speakers.
Elevated language is naturally expected in academic situations, such as college, university, research, important work meetings, etc. Therefore, this type of language may not be understood by many native speakers, and as a result, in Canada, is frequently perceived as arrogant-sounding when used in informal contexts.
Jargon is naturally expected in professional situations where people work in the same industry, field, or job. Therefore, this type of language is not typically used or understood by people who work in different industries, fields, or jobs. Consequently, using business or legal jargon with people who do not work in business or politics results in unclear, and potentially rude, communication. This means that using the word, “bureaucracy,” to refer to “red tape” in most informal situations is inappropriate, as it will likely be misunderstood.
EXAMPLES:
“Despite all the red tape that is required to make a change sometimes, it is still worth the effort, even if that change doesn’t come to be. At least you tried.”
“She wishes that there was less red tape to go through to get her proposal approved.”
What kinds of activities have a lot of red tape in your experience? Practice using this vocabulary by letting me know in the comments below.
