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 resulting surface maintained superomniphobicity at up to 400% strain and through more than 5,000 stretch cycles.—
Neetika Walter,
Interesting Engineering,
17 Feb. 2026 -
The county had already faced several tough budget cycles in recent years due to slow property tax revenue growth and ballooning labor costs before the recent cuts to the federal Medicaid program further stressed the county’s coffers.—
Grace Hase,
Mercury News,
16 Feb. 2026
Noun
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This trend has led to the treat turning up at national chains, like ALDI.—
Joseph Erbentraut,
Better Homes & Gardens,
16 Feb. 2026
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Large chains or spiked jewelry.—
Ed Masley,
AZCentral.com,
16 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 22 Feb. 2026.
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