zero tolerance policy
/ˈzɪə.rəʊ ˈtɒl.ər.əns ˈpɒl.ə.si/
Meaning
This term refers to a strict policy that enforces a specific penalty for any infraction, regardless of the circumstances or excuses. It is frequently used in corporate, educational, and legal contexts to address serious issues like harassment, safety violations, or fraud. The tone is highly formal and authoritative.
Examples
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Our company has a zero tolerance policy regarding any form of workplace harassment.
Our company has a zero tolerance policy regarding any form of workplace harassment.
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The school enforces a zero tolerance policy on cheating during final exams.
The school enforces a zero tolerance policy on cheating during final exams.
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To ensure safety on site, the construction firm has a zero tolerance policy for safety violations.
To ensure safety on site, the construction firm has a zero tolerance policy for safety violations.
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Implementing a zero tolerance policy helped reduce data breaches significantly.
Implementing a zero tolerance policy helped reduce data breaches significantly.
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Under our zero tolerance policy, any employee caught stealing will be dismissed immediately.
Under our zero tolerance policy, any employee caught stealing will be dismissed immediately.
Common Mistakes
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✗ We have a zero toleration policy for late arrivals.
✓ We have a zero tolerance policy for late arrivals.
'Toleration' is a noun, but the standard, idiomatic business term is always 'tolerance'.
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✗ The manager has a zero tolerance policy about smoking.
✓ The manager has a zero tolerance policy on smoking.
Use the prepositions 'on' or 'for' (not 'about') to specify what the policy applies to.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The HR department announced a ___ on discrimination.
💡 A strict rule that allows no exceptions.
Show answer
zero tolerance policy
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Because of our safety-first mindset, we maintain a ___ for working without protective gear.
💡 A strict policy with immediate consequences for violations.
Show answer
zero tolerance policy