work to rule
Short definition from Wiktionary
Verb
- To work slowly by strictly following all work rules, usually in a work-to-rule job action, as part of unionized labor protest.
Noun
- Alternative spelling of work-to-rule.
- A labor protest in which employees do only the minimum work required by the rules of a workplace, following safety or other regulations to the letter in order to cause a slowdown.
Adjective
- Of or pertaining to such a protest.
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