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Synonyms for

Bureaucracy

Noun / bjʊˈrɑ:krʌsi: / Another word for bureaucracy — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

Synonyms & similar words

bureaucratism officialdom administration government authorities protocol procedures paperwork formalities rigmarole policies methodology hierarchy management establishment

Synonyms by register

Formal

administration management organization governance

Informal

red tape the system paperwork officialdom

Literary

machinery apparatus

Antonyms

individualism autonomy freedom liberty self-governance decentralization

Common collocations

  • government bureaucracy
  • corporate bureaucracy
  • excessive bureaucracy
  • bureaucracy and red tape
  • streamline bureaucracy
  • bureaucratic red tape
  • fight bureaucracy

Word family

noun bureaucracy
adjective bureaucratic
adverb bureaucratically

Usage note

Often carries a negative connotation, implying inefficiency and excessive rules. The adjective 'bureaucratic' is more common than the noun in everyday speech.

Compare "bureaucracy" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The bureaucracy can slow down important decisions.
  2. The bureaucracy is responsible for keeping records.
  3. There is a lot of bureaucracy involved in getting a passport.
  4. The bureaucracy can be difficult to navigate.
  5. The bureaucracy enforces the laws and regulations.

Quotes

  • Bureaucracy is the death of all sound work.
  • Bureaucracy defends the status quo long past the time when the quo has lost its status.
  • Bureaucracy is a giant mechanism operated by pygmies.

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