vicious circle

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Definitions from WordNet

Noun vicious circle has 2 senses

vicious circle, vicious cycle - one trouble leads to another that aggravates the first
--₁ is a kind of positive feedback, regeneration
vicious circle - an argument that assumes that which is to be proved
--₂ is a kind of specious argument

Definitions from the Web

vicious circle

noun

A situation in which one negative event or circumstance leads to another and back again in a continuous loop, creating a never-ending cycle of negative outcomes.

Examples:

1. The company's financial struggles created a vicious circle, as their inability to invest and grow resulted in decreased revenue, leading to further financial difficulties.

2. Poverty and lack of education often form a vicious circle, as limited access to quality education prevents individuals from escaping poverty, perpetuating the cycle.

3. The excessive use of fossil fuels contributes to climate change, which in turn leads to extreme weather conditions, further exacerbating the use of fossil fuels in a vicious circle.

adjective

Describing a situation or behavior marked by a continuous loop of negative outcomes, where each negative outcome contributes to the next.

Examples:

1. Their toxic relationship was stuck in a vicious circle of jealousy and mistrust, with each argument leading to more resentment and misunderstanding.

2. The country's corrupt political system was trapped in a vicious circle of bribery and dishonesty, as politicians and officials perpetuated a culture of unlawfulness.

3. The company found itself in a vicious circle of declining sales and disengaged customers, as their poor product quality drove away consumers, resulting in even worse sales figures.