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

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

zero tolerance

She vowed a crackdown on lawlessness and zero tolerance for looters and rioters.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 25, 2026

A spokesperson for Delta told The Times in an emailed statement, “Delta has zero tolerance for unruly or unlawful behavior, as the safety of our customers and crew always comes first.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 12, 2026

Executive chairman Donald Tang told AFP last year that the company has "zero tolerance" for forced labour.

From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026

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

From BBC ● Aug. 24, 2026

When she says something about zero tolerance, Abby squeezes my hand.

From "Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda" by Becky Albertalli

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