bureaucracy
This term carries a strong negative charge when referring to the rigidity of rules, often evoking feelings of frustration, stagnation, and helplessness. It describes a mechanical approach to human affairs where the process becomes more important than the outcome, turning a supportive system into an obstacle.
Meanings
A system of administration marked by officialdom, characterized by strict adherence to fixed rules and a hierarchical structure of authority.
"The company's growth was stunted by an overwhelming amount of corporate bureaucracy."
The body of non-elected government officials who implement laws and manage public programs.
"The new minister promised to reform the federal bureaucracy to increase efficiency."
A state of excessive complexity in administrative procedures that results in inefficiency or delays.
"Applying for the visa became a nightmare of red tape and bureaucracy."
Examples
The company's growth was stunted by an overwhelming amount of corporate bureaucracy.
The new minister promised to reform the federal bureaucracy to increase efficiency.
Applying for the visa became a nightmare of red tape and bureaucracy.
Collocations & Compounds
government bureaucracy
Noun collocation: the administrative system of a state
The government bureaucracy is often slow to respond to urgent crises.
corporate bureaucracy
Noun collocation: the hierarchical administrative structure within a company
Many startups struggle to maintain agility as they develop a corporate bureaucracy.
administrative bureaucracy
Noun collocation: the complex system of rules and procedures for management
The administrative bureaucracy required for the grant application was exhausting.
cut through bureaucracy
Verb collocation: to bypass official rules to achieve a faster result
The new CEO promised to cut through bureaucracy to speed up decision making.
fight bureaucracy
Verb collocation: to struggle against inefficient administrative systems
Small business owners often have to fight bureaucracy just to get a basic permit.
Idioms & Sayings
cut through the bureaucracy
to bypass official rules or complex procedures to achieve a goal faster
The CEO decided to cut through the bureaucracy to get the project approved immediately.
bogged down in bureaucracy
to be delayed or prevented from progressing by excessive administrative rules
The construction of the new bridge was bogged down in bureaucracy for three years.