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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The researchers argue that the daily dataset has diagnostic potential, serving as an early warning system for economic cycles, a humanitarian planning tool, and a means of tracking ecological consequences as illuminated nights continue to change at an accelerating pace.—
Bree Shirvell,
Hartford Courant,
12 May 2026 -
The test does repeated cycles to try to amplify specific snippets of genetic material that may be present.—
Beth Mole,
ArsTechnica,
11 May 2026
Noun
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In the 30 years since the program began, it has been implemented by a number of states and nationwide retail chains, and is now mandatory in all federal office buildings.—
Lydia Mansel,
Travel + Leisure,
11 May 2026
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Justin Sullivan | Getty Images From Domino’s Pizza to Applebee’s, restaurant chains are reporting that sales softened in March as gas prices spiked.—
Amelia Lucas,
CNBC,
11 May 2026
Noun
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On the other hand, those who carry heterosis face discrimination from within their own circles — Jim is cast out from by the gym queen crowd when his positive test for the virus is exposed — in a clear parallel for how HIV+ people are often treated in gay circles.—
Wilson Chapman,
IndieWire,
15 May 2026
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As someone who started wearing makeup in high school to hide my dark under-eye circles and unyielding teenage acne, color correctors and concealers have long been mainstays in my makeup bag.—
Sian Babish,
PEOPLE,
15 May 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 19 May. 2026.
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