red tape

1.
Generalneutralformal
- Bureaucratic procedures, rules, or formalities that are considered excessive, time-consuming, or obstructive to efficient action.
- Administrative paperwork and procedural requirements that cause delay or inconvenience.
2.
Generalneutral
- Ceremonial or decorative ribbons and cords used in official, diplomatic, or formal contexts.
3.
Generalinformalfigurative
- Any set of formalities, conventions, or trivial preliminaries regarded as an obstacle to getting something done.

Examples: