a vicious cycle

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a vicious cycle" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation where a problem perpetuates itself, creating a continuous loop of negative consequences. Example: "The lack of education leads to poverty, and poverty in turn leads to a lack of education, creating a vicious cycle that is hard to break."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A vicious cycle.

The New York Times

So it's a vicious cycle".

The New York Times

We're in a vicious cycle.

University of California, Berkeley

"It's a vicious cycle," Lowe said.

The New Yorker

So we see a vicious cycle".

The New York Times

"It is a vicious cycle," he said.

The New York Times

A vicious cycle is becoming established.

The Economist

It becomes a vicious cycle.

The New York Times

"This is a vicious cycle.

The Guardian

"It is kind of a vicious cycle".

The New York Times

"It's a vicious cycle," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a problem with interconnected causes and effects, use "a vicious cycle" to clearly convey the self-reinforcing nature of the issue.

Common error

Avoid using "a vicious cycle" when a simpler linear problem exists. The phrase implies a self-perpetuating loop, not just a single cause-and-effect relationship.

How to use

Learn how to use "a vicious cycle" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a vicious cycle" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or an appositive. As shown by Ludwig, it labels a recurring, self-reinforcing pattern of negative events.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a vicious cycle" is a common and correct phrase used to describe a self-perpetuating problem, as validated by Ludwig. Appearing most frequently in News & Media, Academia, and Science contexts, the phrase effectively identifies a recurring negative pattern. While alternatives like "a downward spiral" exist, "a vicious cycle" offers a clear and concise way to depict this dynamic. Keep in mind it's important to use it only when a true self-reinforcing loop is present, avoiding overuse in simple cause-and-effect scenarios. As shown by Ludwig, the phrase fits formal, neutral and informal registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a self-perpetuating loop

Emphasizes the continuous and reinforcing nature of the problem.

a negative feedback loop

Highlights the feedback mechanism that exacerbates the issue.

a downward spiral

Focuses on the deteriorating condition resulting from the cycle.

a destructive pattern

Shifts the emphasis to the harmful nature of the recurring behavior.

a reinforcing cycle

Highlights how the components of the cycle strengthen each other.

a catch-22 situation

Implies a paradoxical situation where escaping the problem is impossible.

a repeating problem

A simpler way to refer to the cyclical nature, but less intense.

a reinforcing dynamic

Highlights the dynamic nature and how each action reinforces the other.

a treadmill effect

Implies continuous effort with no progress.

a never-ending circle

Focuses on the cyclical nature, emphasizing its lack of resolution.

FAQs

How to use "a vicious cycle" in a sentence?

Use "a vicious cycle" to describe situations where one problem exacerbates another, leading to a worsening situation. For example, "Procrastination leads to stress, which further fuels procrastination, creating "a vicious cycle"".

What can I say instead of "a vicious cycle"?

You can use alternatives like "a downward spiral", "a self-perpetuating loop", or "a negative feedback loop", depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a vicious cycle" or "a vicious circle"?

Both "a vicious cycle" and "a vicious circle" are correct and commonly used, with minimal difference in meaning. The term "cycle" is slightly more prevalent in contemporary usage.

What's the difference between "a vicious cycle" and "a bad habit"?

"A bad habit" refers to an individual's repeated negative behavior. "A vicious cycle", on the other hand, describes a situation where a series of events reinforce each other, leading to a worsening condition. While a bad habit can be part of a vicious cycle, the cycle involves a broader set of interconnected problems.