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Definition of vicious circle


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vicious circle

NOUN:
  1. A situation in which the apparent solution of one problem in a chain of circumstances creates a new problem and increases the difficulty of solving the original problem. Also called vicious cycle .
  2. A condition in which a disorder or disease gives rise to another that subsequently affects the first.
  3. Logic A fallacy in reasoning in which the premise is used to prove the conclusion, and the conclusion used to prove the premise.

ETYMOLOGY:
Translation of New Latin circulus vitisus, circular argument : Medieval Latin circulus, circular argument + Latin vitisus, flawed, faulty


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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition.
Copyright © 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by the Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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