vicious circles

noun

variants also vicious cycles
plural of vicious circle
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
  1. cycles
  2. chains
  3. circles
Noun
  • The design reflects the cycles of the moon and the short life of the cactus flower, giving this important structure a unique and personal feel.
    — Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026
  • Why the timing matters The agreement comes as advanced nuclear technologies and other energy systems drive demand for manufacturing methods that can shorten development cycles while producing increasingly complex components.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of cycles
Noun
  • All major bank chains will be closed on Labor Day; however, physical ATMs will still be available at most bank locations.
    — Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The bars were sold at major grocery chains including Publix, Harris Teeter, Walmart and Food Lion, according to an online product finder on Outshine’s website.
    — Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 3 Sep. 2026
Definition of chains
Noun
  • Though interest in peptides is popular in certain wellness circles, including with podcasters like Joe Rogan, many of those who are seeking alternative medicine or who are going back to traditional cultural practices don’t fit the MAHA archetype.
    — Cara Kelly, USA Today, 30 Aug. 2026
  • This year’s competition saw 429 drivers from 49 states who have logged a combined total of nearly 775 million safe driving miles throughout their careers, which is over 31,000 circles around the earth.
    — Alice Barlow, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
Definition of circles
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.

Browse Nearby Words

vicious circle
vicious circles
viciously
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Cite this Entry

“Vicious circles.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vicious%20circles. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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