German word

bürokratisch

Pronunciation

IPA/byʁoˈkʁaːtɪʃ/

Meaning

  • adjectivebureaucratic

Example

Das neue Formular ist noch bürokratischer als das alte.

The new form is even more bureaucratic than the old one.

Illustration for bürokratisch (bureaucratic)

More examples

Die Abteilung ist bürokratisch organisiert und reagiert langsam.

The department is bureaucratically organized and responds slowly.

Core concept

A file moves through a chain of desks, each step controlled by prescribed office procedures.

Common phrases

  • bürokratisch organisiert

    bureaucratically organized

  • bürokratisches Formular

    bureaucratic form

  • bürokratische Kontrolle

    bureaucratic control

Similar words

formell: Following accepted formalities in official settings or polite communication.
sachlich: Calm and objective, based on facts and reasons rather than emotion.
amtlich: Issued by a public authority and carrying official or legal validity.

Definition in German

sachlich und nach festen Regeln ablaufend, oft mit vielen Formularen und wenig Spielraum

Word origin

Bürokratisch is formed from Bürokratie with the adjective ending -isch; Bürokratie ultimately combines French bureau with Greek krátos, meaning rule.

Usage tips

  • Bürokratisch often sounds critical, whereas formell or sachlich is usually safer for neutral praise of official language or conduct.

Other meanings

  • administrativeadjective
  • formalisticadjective

Opposites

Related words

  • Bürokratisierungbureaucratizationnoun
  • Bürokratentumbureaucratismnoun

Word lists with this word