English Dictionary

red tape

noun

The binding tape once used for holding important documents together. / (metonymically, idiomatic) Time-consuming regulations or bureaucratic procedures.

The government needs to cut through the red tape to get things done more efficiently.

意味（1）

The binding tape once used for holding important documents together.

At twilight in the summer there is never anybody to fear—man, woman, or cat—in the chambers and at that hour the mice come out. They do not eat parchment or foolscap or red tape, but they eat the luncheon crumbs.

意味（2）

(metonymically, idiomatic) Time-consuming regulations or bureaucratic procedures.

All the red tape and paperwork that goes on there prevents any progress.