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.
Related Words
Relevance
Example Sentences
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vicious circles
cycles
Noun
-
This leads to mounting bad debt and erratic cash flow, creating instability, especially for businesses with high-ticket sales or long payment cycles.—
Ashish Srimal,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024 -
Each of these quarterbacks was a top-50 prospect nationally in their respective recruiting cycles.—
Antonio Morales,
The Athletic,
27 Dec. 2024
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Cite this Entry
“Vicious circles.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vicious%20circles. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share