red tape

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But red tape is now threatening the future of many bakers' culinary creations as some councils in England are reviewing their street trading policies, and questioning whether cake sheds should require a licence.

From BBC • Jun. 6, 2026

A highly specific 35 percent cut to government red tape using A.I.

From Slate • Jun. 6, 2026

It can also help fast-track reviews and cut red tape to move projects along, and helps encourage the growth of certain industries, like life sciences and tech, and the high-paying jobs that come with them.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 29, 2026

He said many want to operate legally but get caught up in red tape and called for a more "organized, sustainable model."

From Barron's • May 29, 2026

"I saw the queues, the shortages, the filthiness of public lavatories, the bureaucracy, the corruption, the red tape, the rudeness of officials, the impossibility of obtaining redress when one had a complaint," he remembered.

From "Spies: The Secret Showdown Between America and Russia" by Marc Favreau