downward spiral

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English

Noun

downward spiral (plural downward spirals)

  1. (figurative) A series of thoughts or actions which feeds back into itself, causing a situation to become progressively worse.
    Antonyms: rebound, upward spiral
    Coordinate term: vicious circle

Usage notes

  • A downward spiral is considered worse than a vicious circle, which is self-sustaining in its current state.

See also