Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
vicious-circle
noun
/ˈvɪʃ.əs ˈsɜːr.kəl/
Definition
A complex chain of events that reinforces itself through a feedback loop, often leading to worsening conditions.
Examples
- Many people find themselves trapped in a vicious circle of debt and poor credit.
- Her anxiety created a vicious circle that led to further isolation.
- In addiction, a vicious circle often occurs, where substance use leads to more problems, prompting further use.
Meaning
A situation where one problem creates a new problem, which then exacerbates the original issue, resulting in a cycle that is hard to break.
Synonyms
- vicious cycle
- negative feedback loop
- self-reinforcing loop
