variants
also vicious cycles
as in cycles
a repeating situation or condition in which one problem causes another problem that makes the first problem worse
We're trapped in a vicious circle of needing to borrow money in order to pay debts.
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Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vicious circles
Noun
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Engineers plan to use a modern steel enclosure system, similar to the one installed at K East, to better protect the reactor structure from wind, sand, and freeze-thaw cycles while lowering long-term maintenance costs.—
Sujita Sinha,
Interesting Engineering,
24 Feb. 2026 -
Narvarro ran to represent Los Angeles County residents in California’s 43rd Congressional District in the 2016, 2018, 2020 and 2022 election cycles.—
Clara Harter,
Los Angeles Times,
24 Feb. 2026
Noun
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Larger chains and brands are also offering refillable options and other innovations.—
ABC News,
ABC News,
23 Feb. 2026
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National chains such as Sears, Kmart, Radio Shack, Payless Shoes and HH Gregg have either shuttered locations or gone out of business altogether.—
Miami Herald Archives,
Miami Herald,
23 Feb. 2026
Noun
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Equally important is the brand’s standing within elite professional and social circles, built through discretion, delivery, and repeat trust rather than visibility alone.—
Jason Phillips,
USA Today,
20 Feb. 2026
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The best eye creams for mature skin present a triple threat, addressing fine lines, dryness, and dark circles.—
Tracy Perez Han,
InStyle,
20 Feb. 2026
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Cite this Entry
“Vicious circles.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vicious%20circles. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.
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