bureaucracy Definition
- 1a system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives
- 2the officials in a bureaucracy, considered as a group or as a political faction
Using bureaucracy: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "bureaucracy" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The company's bureaucracy slowed down the decision-making process.
Example
The country's bureaucracy is known for its inefficiency and corruption.
Example
The new law aims to reduce bureaucracy and streamline government processes.
bureaucracy Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for bureaucracy
- administration
- government
- officialdom
- authorities
- civil service
Antonyms for bureaucracy
- anarchy
- chaos
Phrases with bureaucracy
Example
The project was delayed due to all the red tape involved in getting the necessary permits.
a situation characterized by excessive bureaucracy and red tape that makes it difficult to accomplish anything
Example
Dealing with the DMV can be a bureaucratic nightmare.
the tendency of bureaucracies to resist change and maintain the status quo
Example
The company's bureaucratic inertia prevented it from adapting to changing market conditions.
Origins of bureaucracy
from French 'bureaucratie', from bureau (office) + -cratie (rule)
Summary: bureaucracy in Brief
The term 'bureaucracy' [byoor-ok-ruh-see] refers to a system of government where state officials make important decisions instead of elected representatives. It also refers to the officials themselves. 'Bureaucracy' is often associated with inefficiency and excessive adherence to rules and formalities, as in 'The company's bureaucracy slowed down the decision-making process.' Phrases like 'red tape' and 'bureaucratic nightmare' highlight the difficulties caused by bureaucracy.
