go through channels
[ɡoʊ θruː ˈtʃænəlz]
verb phrase
seguir os trâmites oficiais; passar pelos canais apropriados
1. To follow the official or proper procedures and authorities to accomplish something, rather than taking shortcuts or bypassing proper protocol
If you want to file a complaint, you need to go through channels and submit it to the HR department first.
Se você quer registrar uma reclamação, precisa seguir os trâmites oficiais e submetê-la primeiro ao departamento de RH.
2. To use the appropriate hierarchical or official routes to request something or make a decision known
The employee went through channels to request a raise from management.
O funcionário seguiu os canais apropriados para solicitar um aumento à gerência.
This phrase is commonly used in corporate and institutional environments in both the USA and Brazil to emphasize bureaucratic propriety and respect for hierarchical structures. In Brazilian culture, 'jeito' (getting things done creatively) is often contrasted with 'going through channels,' reflecting tension between formal procedures and informal problem-solving approaches.
NYC Slang
Go through the proper channels; do it the right way (no distinctive NYC slang equivalent, standard English usage)
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