English > English |
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red tape |
1. n. The binding tape once used for holding important documents together. |
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2. n. (metonym, idiomatic) Time-consuming regulations or bureaucratic procedures. |
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All the red tape and paperwork that goes on there prevents any progress. |
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Analysis |
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Red |
1. n. A Communist. |
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2. n. A supporter of a sports team who wears red as part of their kit. |
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3. adj. Communist |
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the Red Army |
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4. adj. Having red as its color. |
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tape |
1. n. Flexible material in a roll with a sticky surface on one or both sides; adhesive tape. |
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Hand me some tape. I need to fix a tear in this paper. |
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2. n. Thin and flat paper, plastic or similar flexible material, usually produced in the form of a roll. |
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After the party there was tape all over the place. |
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3. n. Finishing tape, stretched across a track to mark the end of a race. |
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