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
Noun
-
When residents see the returns, support becomes more durable and less dependent on political cycles.—
Ed Gaskin,
Boston Herald,
4 May 2026 -
Understanding vicious cycles and logical fallacies.—
Kaitlyn Schallhorn,
Oc Register,
4 May 2026
Noun
-
The neighborhood/area Despite many of the area’s mansions housing businesses or fairly average restaurant chains, this stretch of Sarrià still belongs to the wealthy.—
Condé Nast,
Condé Nast Traveler,
4 May 2026
-
Madonna honored the era with fishnets, metal studs and silver chains adorning a Givenchy mini plaid blazer by Riccardo Tisci.—
Luis Giraldo,
CBS News,
4 May 2026
Noun
-
Then move through the concentric circles one stage at a time.—
Big Think,
Big Think,
7 May 2026
-
Menzin, then 34, was viewed in some circles as a rising star after ascending from intern to the front office.—
Brittany Ghiroli,
New York Times,
6 May 2026
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 9 May. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
