B2idiompoliticsIELTS-friendly
red tape
USUK
official rules and paperwork that seem unnecessary and cause delays
Uncountable and always critical. Common with 'cut', 'reduce' and 'too much'.
In context
Opening a small café took months because of all the red tape.
The government promised to cut red tape for small businesses.
Common mistake
Incorrect: There are too many red tapes.
Correct: There is too much red tape.
More idioms about politics
- a grey areaa situation where the rules are unclear, so nobody is sure what is allowed
- a U-turna complete change of plan or policy, especially by a government
- against the lawnot allowed by the law; illegal
- behind barsin prison
- pay lip service to somethingto say you support something without doing anything to help it