The idiom "vicious circle" refers to a situation where one problem leads to another, which in turn leads back to the original problem, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. It is also known as a "vicious cycle."
For example, if someone is struggling with addiction, they may lose their job, which can lead to financial problems. These financial problems can then cause stress and anxiety, which can make the addiction worse, leading to more job loss and financial problems. This cycle can continue indefinitely, making it difficult for the person to break free from their addiction.
The term "vicious circle" can also be used in other situations where a problem leads to another problem, which then exacerbates the original problem. For instance, if a student is struggling with a particular subject, they may become discouraged and lose motivation, which can lead to even worse grades and more discouragement.
In general, the term "vicious circle" is used to describe situations where problems seem to feed off each other, creating a cycle that is difficult to escape.
• The government's economic policies have created a vicious circle where the gap between the rich and poor widens, leading to further social and economic instability.
• Climate change has created a vicious circle where rising temperatures lead to melting ice caps, which in turn leads to more warming as the reflective surface of the ice disappears.
• John is in debt and borrows money to pay it off, but then he's in debt again, creating a vicious circle that he can't escape.
• The pharmaceutical industry's focus on profit over patients has created a vicious circle where new drugs are developed primarily for profit, rather than for the benefit of society, leading to a lack of innovation and a perpetuation of the status quo.
• Jane's anxiety causes her to avoid social situations, but her isolation and lack of social support further exacerbate her anxiety, leading to a vicious circle of negative emotions.
• I'm always late for work because I oversleep, but then I stay up late because I work late, and it's a vicious circle.