bound up in red tape crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "bound up in red tape," helping you quickly complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding.
Solutions for "bound up in red tape crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FORMAL: Pertaining to official procedures or requirements, often associated with bureaucratic processes.
8 Letters
OFFICIAL: Relating to an office or position of authority, implying strict adherence to rules and bureaucracy.
9 Letters
ENTANGLED: Describes being caught or involved in something complicated and difficult to escape, like a web of regulations.
10 Letters
OBSTRUCTED: Hindered or blocked, which is a common outcome when dealing with excessive red tape.
12 Letters
BUREAUCRATIC: Directly describes the system of administration that involves excessive official formality and rigid adherence to rules and procedures.
More About "bound up in red tape crossword clue"
The phrase "red tape" is a widely recognized idiom referring to excessive regulation or rigid conformity to formal rules that are considered redundant or bureaucratic and hinder or prevent action or decision-making. Historically, it originated from the practice of binding official documents with red ribbons or tape in various European countries.
In the context of crosswords, clues involving "red tape" often test your knowledge of synonyms for bureaucracy, officialdom, or the effects of such systems. Answers can range from straightforward descriptors of governmental or institutional procedures to more abstract words implying hindrance or complexity. Understanding the core meaning of the idiom is key to identifying potential answers of varying lengths and nuances.
When you encounter this clue, think about words that evoke slowness, difficulty, rules, or official processes. The multiple possible answers provided above reflect the different ways crossword setters might interpret or allude to "red tape," offering a comprehensive approach to solving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. For "bound up in red tape," solutions like BUREAUCRATIC (12 letters) or FORMAL (6 letters) demand different puzzle contexts.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that are related to or opposite in meaning to "red tape." While the clue points to bureaucracy, sometimes a puzzle might ask for a contrasting concept in another clue that indirectly relates.
- Contextual Clues: Pay attention to other clues in the puzzle. Sometimes, a related clue or a theme can provide indirect hints to the answer for "bound up in red tape."
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While "BUREAUCRATIC" is a direct fit, consider words that describe the *feeling* or *effect* of red tape, such as "ENTANGLED" or "OBSTRUCTED," which can also be valid answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'red tape' mean in a crossword context?
'Red tape' refers to excessive bureaucracy or adherence to official rules and formalities, which can make a process slow or difficult. In crosswords, clues related to 'red tape' often point to answers like BUREAUCRATIC, OFFICIAL, or FORMAL, all implying a rigid or over-regulated system.
How can I identify 'red tape' related crossword answers?
Look for words that describe bureaucratic processes, excessive rules, or the feeling of being hindered by formal procedures. Synonyms for 'bureaucracy' or terms like 'officialdom,' 'paperwork,' or 'protocol' are good indicators. Consider answers that imply complexity, delay, or strict adherence to rules, such as ENTANGLED or OBSTRUCTED.
Are there common word lengths for 'red tape' answers?
Answers can vary greatly in length. 'BUREAUCRATIC' is a longer answer (12 letters), while 'OFFICIAL' (8 letters) or 'FORMAL' (6 letters) are shorter. The clue itself doesn't restrict length, so check surrounding letters or other clues in your puzzle for hints on the required length.