vicious cycle
Definition
Noun: A situation in which the solution to one problem creates new problems that, in turn, make the original problem worse, leading to a self-perpetuating chain of negative events. It describes a sequence of cause and effect that is difficult to break.
Usage
The term "vicious cycle" is used to describe a recurring, negative feedback loop in various contexts, such as economics, psychology, health, and social issues. It emphasizes the inescapable and worsening nature of the situation.
Examples
- General:
- Psychology:
- Economics:
Advanced Usage
- "to be caught/stuck/trapped in a vicious cycle": This phrase is commonly used to describe the feeling of being unable to escape the negative loop.
- Without intervention, families can become trapped in a vicious cycle of debt.
- The term is often synonymous with "vicious circle," with "cycle" being more common in modern usage.
Variants and Related Words
- Vicious circle (noun): An alternative form with the same meaning.
- Cycle (noun): A series of events that are regularly repeated in the same order.
- Feedback loop (noun): A broader term for when outputs of a system are routed back as inputs, which can be either positive (amplifying) or negative (stabilizing). A vicious cycle is a negative feedback loop with detrimental effects.
- Downward spiral (noun): A closely related idiom emphasizing a continuous and rapid decline or deterioration.
Synonyms
- Vicious circle
- Downward spiral
- Self-perpetuating problem
- No-win situation
- Catch-22 (This synonym specifically implies a paradoxical situation where the solution is blocked by the problem itself.)
Related Idioms
- A catch-22: A situation from which one cannot escape because of mutually conflicting conditions or rules.
- You need experience to get a job, but you need a job to get experience—it's a catch-22.
- A downward spiral: A situation that continuously gets worse.
- His depression started a downward spiral that affected his work and relationships.
Noun
-
one trouble leads to another that aggravates the first
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