work-to-rule
noun
: the practice of working to the strictest interpretation of the rules as a job action
Examples of work-to-rule in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
There was already a lack of investment in airport infrastructure and air traffic control, as well as poor working conditions for air traffic controllers, which led to strikes and work-to-rule protests.
—
Jordana Comiter, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025
This led to strikes and work-to-rule protests (when strict adherence to procedures is used to slow down operations), all while passenger numbers were growing without proportional expansion of infrastructure.
—Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 23 Apr. 2025
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Jordana Comiter, People.com, 24 Apr. 2025
This led to strikes and work-to-rule protests (when strict adherence to procedures is used to slow down operations), all while passenger numbers were growing without proportional expansion of infrastructure.
—Isadora Wandermurem, Time, 23 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Work-to-rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/work-to-rule. Accessed 11 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share