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

The company said it supported the government in its investigation and that the company “has zero tolerance for violations of the law.”

From Barron's • Apr. 22, 2026

“We all have zero, zero tolerance for what is happening and what’s been happening in the Valley,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass during a news conference Monday afternoon.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 20, 2026

Social media platforms also told us they had zero tolerance for any content that promoted people smuggling and were working with authorities to combat organised crime.

From BBC • Apr. 10, 2026

The Durrell trust previously said animal welfare was a top priority, the charity had zero tolerance to bullying and it was time to move forward.

From BBC • Feb. 2, 2026

At least if you adopt a zero tolerance approach, when you next see a banner advertising “CD’s, DVD’s, Video’s, and Book’s”, you won’t just stay indoors getting depressed about it.

From "Eats, Shoots & Leaves" by Author