PhrasesHub

Zero tolerance

    Definitions

      • strict policy
        Refers to a strict policy of not tolerating any infraction or deviation from the rules or standards

      • complete refusal
        Indicates a complete refusal to accept or allow something, often used in the context of unacceptable behavior or actions

    Examples of Zero tolerance

    • The school's zero tolerance policy meant that even the smallest infraction would result in immediate suspension.

      This example demonstrates the use of zero tolerance in a sentence describing a school policy. Zero tolerance refers to a strict approach to discipline that doesn't allow any exceptions or leniency, regardless of the severity of the offense. In this case, the policy is so unyielding that even minor violations will lead to suspension.

    • The city's zero tolerance policy regarding littering has led to a significant decrease in the amount of trash on the streets.

      In this example, zero tolerance is used to describe a strict regulation against littering in the city. This policy mandates that there will be no tolerance for littering, no matter how small or insignificant the act may be. As a result, the policy has effectively reduced the amount of litter on the streets.

    • The police department adopted a zero tolerance policy to combat the growing problem of drug-related crimes in the area.

      This example shows the use of zero tolerance in a sentence relating to law enforcement measures being taken to reduce drug-related offenses. Zero tolerance in this context indicates that the police are taking an uncompromising stance against drug-related crimes, and will not tolerate any such activities in the area.

    • The hospital implemented a zero tolerance policy for patients who don't follow medical instructions, in an effort to prevent medical errors and improve patient outcomes.

      In this example, zero tolerance is being used to describe a strict hospital policy relating to patient compliance with medical instructions. This policy ensures that patients are fully accountable for following their doctors' recommendations, and that there will be no tolerance for non-compliance, as this could lead to medical errors and adverse outcomes.

    • The school has a strict zero tolerance policy when it comes to student safety. If a student is caught bullying another student, they will be immediately suspended and expulsion may follow.

      Zero tolerance refers to a strict and uncompromising stance that a school, organization, or authority figure takes on a certain issue, in this case, student safety and bullying. It means that there are no exceptions or warnings given, and the consequence for breaking the rule will be severe, such as immediate suspension or expulsion.

    • The police department has adopted a zero tolerance approach to drunk driving. Any driver caught with a blood alcohol content over the legal limit will be arrested and face severe penalties, regardless of their prior record.

      When a police department implements a zero tolerance policy towards drunk driving, it means that they will not tolerate or make any allowances for drivers who have consumed alcohol and are driving under the influence. They will not offer any warnings, exceptions, or leniency, and the punishment for breaking this rule will be severe, regardless of the driver's prior record.

    • The hospital has a zero tolerance policy towards patient safety. Any member of staff found violating safety protocols, such as leaving necessary equipment out of place, will face immediate disciplinary action, including termination in severe cases.

      When a hospital creates a zero tolerance policy towards patient safety, it means that they will not tolerate or make any allowances for staff members who compromise the safety and wellbeing of patients, regardless of their prior record. They will not offer any warnings, exceptions, or leniency, and the punishment for breaking this rule will be severe, including immediate disciplinary action, including termination in severe cases.

    • The government has zero tolerance for corruption. Any official found engaging in corrupt activities, such as accepting bribes or misappropriating public funds, will face immediate prosecution and severe penalties.

      When a government establishes a zero tolerance policy towards corruption, it means that they will not tolerate or make any allowances for officials who engage in corrupt practices. They will not offer any warnings, exceptions, or leniency, and the punishment for breaking this rule will be severe, including immediate prosecution and severe penalties.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "zero tolerance" is commonly used to convey the idea of strict policies or complete refusal. It is often used in discussions related to rules, standards, or unacceptable behavior.

    In the context of strict policies, "zero tolerance" is used to emphasize a firm stance on not allowing any deviation or infraction from the established rules or standards. This can be seen in various settings such as schools, workplaces, or law enforcement, where "zero tolerance" policies are implemented to maintain discipline and order.

    On the other hand, "zero tolerance" also conveys the idea of complete refusal to accept or allow something. This is often used in discussions about unacceptable behavior or actions, indicating that there will be no leniency or acceptance of such conduct.

    Overall, the idiom "zero tolerance" is used to emphasize the strictness of a policy or the complete refusal to accept certain behavior or actions.

    Origin of "Zero tolerance"

    The origin of the idiom "zero tolerance" can be traced back to its use in law enforcement and criminal justice. The concept of zero tolerance policies gained prominence in the 1980s and 1990s as a response to increasing concerns about crime and public safety.

    The phrase "zero tolerance" became associated with the idea of cracking down on all forms of criminal behavior without exception. This approach was intended to send a strong message that certain actions would not be tolerated, and strict consequences would follow.

    Over time, the use of "zero tolerance" expanded beyond law enforcement to other areas such as education and workplace policies, where the term came to signify a firm stance against any form of rule-breaking or unacceptable behavior.

    The origin of the idiom "zero tolerance" reflects a desire for strict enforcement and a clear message of refusal to accept certain actions or behaviors. Examples of "zero tolerance" policies include automatic expulsion from school for drug possession or immediate termination from a job for harassment.