cumbersome procedures

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cumbersome procedures" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe processes or methods that are overly complicated or difficult to manage. Example: "The company is facing delays due to cumbersome procedures that hinder efficient workflow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

But the cumbersome procedures are already taking their toll.

The New York Times

Cumbersome procedures at Ethiopian customs delay vital supplies, according to one worker.

The Guardian

The Army's housing organization was hamstrung by cumbersome procedures, chronic budget limitations, and fragmented responsibilities.

Harvard Business Review

However, conventional commercial detectors generally require complex designs, expensive devices and cumbersome procedures.

Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells

Security officials later reinstated the two-hour rule, but scientists at Los Alamos say other cumbersome procedures remain.

The New York Times - Science

The budget bill includes sweeping changes to the cumbersome procedures that govern environmental approval of energy projects.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Surely no one would inflict such a cumbersome procedure on people.

The New York Times - Tech

Such subsection is rewritten to eliminate the cumbersome procedure of remand.

Cornell University

"It is a cumbersome procedure and a very lengthy procedure, so we are obviously hoping to avoid that," said Scarola.

The Guardian

It is a long and cumbersome procedure that involves combining pieces of DNA in embryonic stem cells and mouse breeding.

The Guardian

But until the work of Javey and his research group, fabricating such nanopillars was a complex and cumbersome procedure.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing bureaucratic inefficiencies, use "cumbersome procedures" to accurately convey the sense of being weighed down by unnecessary complexity. It’s particularly effective when the goal is to highlight the need for simplification or streamlining.

Common error

While "cumbersome procedures" is widely understood, it can sound overly formal in casual settings. Opt for simpler alternatives like "complicated steps" or "difficult process" when communicating with a general audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cumbersome procedures" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "cumbersome" modifies the noun "procedures". As evidenced by Ludwig AI, this phrase commonly acts as the subject or object of a sentence, describing the nature of the procedures in question.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

32%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "cumbersome procedures" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe processes that are overly complex and inefficient. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is particularly suitable for formal contexts, such as news reporting, scientific publications, and business communications. When writing, consider the audience and context to ensure the phrase's formality aligns with the overall tone. If a less formal tone is desired, consider alternatives such as ""complex processes"" or ""complicated routines"". Remember to use "cumbersome procedures" when aiming to highlight the need for simplification or reform in a process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

burdensome protocols

Highlights the oppressive or troublesome nature of the protocols.

complex processes

Replaces "cumbersome" with a more general term for difficulty, focusing on intricacy.

unwieldy methods

Emphasizes the difficulty in managing or handling the methods.

complicated routines

Substitutes "procedures" with a synonym implying a set of actions regularly followed and "cumbersome" with a more technical tone.

laborious processes

Focuses on the effort and time required by the processes.

tedious regulations

Emphasizes the monotonous and wearisome nature of the regulations.

inefficient systems

Shifts the focus to the lack of efficiency within the systems, implying wasted time and resources.

protracted proceedings

Highlights the extended duration of the proceedings, suggesting unnecessary delays.

time-consuming formalities

Focuses specifically on the length of time required to complete the formalities.

awkward mechanisms

Implies a lack of grace or smoothness in the operation of the mechanisms.

FAQs

How can I replace "cumbersome procedures" in a sentence?

Alternatives include "complex processes", "complicated routines", or "unwieldy methods". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

What makes procedures "cumbersome"?

Procedures become "cumbersome" when they are overly complex, time-consuming, and inefficient, often due to unnecessary steps or bureaucratic red tape. This can lead to frustration and delays.

Is it appropriate to use "cumbersome procedures" in formal writing?

Yes, "cumbersome procedures" is suitable for formal writing, especially when discussing bureaucratic processes, legal matters, or any situation where efficiency is hindered by complexity.

What is the difference between "cumbersome procedures" and "rigid procedures"?

"Cumbersome procedures" implies complexity and inefficiency, while "rigid procedures" suggests inflexibility and an unwillingness to adapt to changing circumstances. They both hinder progress, but in different ways.