zero tolerance

American  

noun

1. a policy of very strict, uncompromising enforcement of rules or laws.

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zero tolerance British  

noun

1. 1. the policy of applying laws or penalties to even minor infringements of a code in order to reinforce its overall importance

   2. ( as modifier )

      a zero-tolerance policy on drugs

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Etymology

Origin of zero tolerance

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

zero tolerance

“Binance has zero tolerance for sanctions violations or illicit activity, and Binance did not permit any transactions with sanctioned individuals,” the Binance spokesperson said.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 15, 2026

“Let me be clear: there is zero tolerance for illegal street racing and street takeovers in Los Angeles,” Bass said.

From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 8, 2026

"If more officers are found, they will also be punished. We have zero tolerance against such practice."

From BBC ● Aug. 24, 2026

BYD says it stopped working with its contractor for the Brazil factory and that it has zero tolerance for violations of human rights and labor laws across its operations.

From The Wall Street Journal ● May 28, 2026

But this is not a complete or final solution, for a zero tolerance on paper is of little value.

From "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson