extra paperwork

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extra paperwork" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to additional documents or forms that are required beyond what is typically necessary. Example: "Due to the new regulations, we will need to complete some extra paperwork before finalizing the contract."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"I don't like the extra paperwork involved," the principal said.

The New York Times

"What I am worried about is extra paperwork," she added.

The New York Times

There would probably be extra paperwork, her least favorite activity.

The New Yorker

An elementary school literacy coach wondered whether the evaluations would produce anything other than extra paperwork.

The New York Times

Still, for some affluent couples with disparate incomes, the extra paperwork has paid off.

The New York Times

(Flaming torches and firearms, which require extra paperwork at customs, are shared).

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

There may be extra steps or additional paperwork, but sometimes the outcome is the same as you'd get without sharia.

Forbes

If you earn most of your income on 1099s, brace yourself for extra preparation, paperwork and discussion of your financial picture when applying for a mortgage.

The New York Times

He became known as a "collar guy" — the type of cop who, given a choice, likes to make arrests, never mind the extra danger, paperwork, and court appearances they entail.

The New Yorker

But these ingredients are tightly controlled, and prescriptions may require extra time and paperwork.

The New York Times

Taking a new job right in the middle of a mortgage refinancing, though, could mean extra time and paperwork.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing efficiency improvements, quantify the reduction in "extra paperwork" to demonstrate tangible benefits. For example, "The new system eliminates 50% of the extra paperwork previously required."

Common error

Avoid using "extra paperwork" repeatedly in a single document. Vary your language by using synonyms like "additional documentation" or "increased bureaucracy" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extra paperwork" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes the concept of additional or excessive documentation required for a task or process. Ludwig confirms that this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extra paperwork" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe the burden of additional documentation. Ludwig's analysis, combined with its frequent appearance in news and media sources, confirms its widespread usage and neutral to informal register. When writing, be mindful of potential overuse and consider synonyms like "additional documentation" or "increased bureaucracy" to diversify your language. Remember to quantify the reduction of "extra paperwork" when highlighting efficiency improvements, and be aware that "extra red tape" can lead to decreased productivity and employee frustration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

additional documentation

Replaces "paperwork" with a more formal term, "documentation", emphasizing the official nature of the documents.

excessive documentation

Similar to "additional documentation" but emphasizes the overabundance of documents.

supplementary forms

Specifies that the additional paperwork consists of "forms", making it more precise.

unnecessary paperwork

Implies that the paperwork is not essential or useful.

increased bureaucracy

Shifts focus from the physical documents to the administrative system that generates them.

additional forms to fill out

Specifies the action required: filling out the forms.

added administrative burden

Highlights the workload and effort associated with the additional paperwork.

more forms than necessary

Indicates a higher-than-required quantity of forms.

extra red tape

Uses a common idiom to describe excessive regulation and complex procedures.

increased administrative overhead

Focuses on the cost, in terms of resources and time, associated with the administrative tasks.

FAQs

How can I avoid "extra paperwork"?

Streamlining processes, utilizing digital solutions, and ensuring clear communication of requirements can significantly reduce the need for "extra paperwork".

What is the impact of "extra paperwork" on productivity?

"Extra paperwork" can lead to decreased productivity, increased administrative costs, and employee frustration. Addressing this issue through automation and process optimization is crucial.

What's a more formal way to refer to "extra paperwork"?

More formal alternatives include "additional documentation", "supplementary forms", or "increased bureaucracy".

Why is "extra paperwork" often viewed negatively?

"Extra paperwork" is typically viewed negatively because it is associated with inefficiency, wasted time, and unnecessary administrative burden. Reducing "extra red tape" can improve overall organizational effectiveness.