The staff decided to work to rule to show their frustration.
work to rule
idiomTo work slowly by strictly following all work rules, usually in a work-to-rule job action, as part of unionized labor protest.
Because the company refused to raise wages, the union members started to work to rule until management agreed to negotiate.
In a calculated display of defiance, the employees began to work to rule, ensuring that every minor regulation was followed with such precision that productivity ground to a halt.
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as a rule
In general; most often.
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bright-line rule
A clear-cut rule, so that it is easy to make a decision.
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busy work
Work or activity performed with the intention or result of occupying time, and not necessarily to accomplish something productive; routine work of low priority undertaken for the sake of avoiding idleness.
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close enough for government work
Adequate; acceptable as government work, imperfect but not worth the time nor effort of improving.
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crazy enough to work
Acknowledging that an idea, plan, or strategy seems foolish, implausible, or risky, yet might succeed precisely because of its unconventional or unexpected nature.
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detective work
investigative research
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dirty work
One or more unpleasant tasks, assignments, or employment duties, especially those of a disreputable or illicit nature.
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do the work
To take part in social justice activism; to fight against racism, oppression, etc.
Last updated April 17, 2026