Meaning: A sequence of events that reinforces itself negatively
Hindi: दुष्चक्र
Synonyms: downward spiral, endless loop
Antonyms: virtuous cycle
Asked in: SSC CGL 2024 T-1 · SSC CPO 2024 T-1 · SSC CHSL 2024 T-1
vicious cycle in SSC previous-year questions
- SSC CGL 2024 T-1 One Word Substitution
Select the term which means the same as the given group of words.
A continuing unpleasant situation, created when one problem causes another problem that then makes the first problem worseAnswer & explanation
Answer: D) Vicious cycle
The correct answer is: d
"Vicious cycle": It refers to a situation where one problem leads to another, and this new problem worsens the original issue, creating a cycle of ongoing difficulties. - SSC CPO 2024 T-1 Idioms & Phrases
Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.
A vicious cycleAnswer & explanation
Answer: D) a situation in which one problem causes another one, making the original problem impossible to solve.
The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "a vicious cycle" is:
A situation in which one problem causes another one, making the original problem impossible to solve.
Explanation:
• A vicious cycle refers to a situation where problems or difficulties are interconnected, with each issue worsening the other, creating a repetitive and self-perpetuating loop. This makes breaking free from the cycle extremely challenging.
Why the other options are incorrect:
• "One problem causes another one, making the first one easy to solve" contradicts the idea of a vicious cycle, as it implies resolution rather than escalation.
• "Several problems merge and become one extremely complex problem" does not accur - SSC CHSL 2024 T-1 Idioms & Phrases
Select the most appropriate meaning of the underlined idiom.
The United Nations is working to eliminate the vicious cycle of poverty.
(SSC CHSL 2024 T-1 (05-July Shift 2))Answer & explanation
Answer: C) One problem causes other
Correct Answer: One problem causes other
Explanation:
The idiom “vicious cycle” refers to a situation where one problem causes another problem, which in turn worsens the first problem, creating a self-reinforcing negative loop.
Let’s examine the options:
• Strength of something – ❌ incorrect; not related to recurring problems.
• Loophole of something – ❌ refers to a gap or flaw; unrelated here.
• One problem causes other – ✅ correct; matches the idea of a “vicious cycle.”
• The barrier of poverty – ❌ not the idiom’s meaning.
✅ Therefore, “vicious cycle” means a situation in which one problem leads to another, creating a continuous loop of difficulties.
Examples
- “Poverty and illiteracy form a vicious cycle in many regions.”
vicious cycle – questions
What is the meaning of vicious cycle in Hindi?
vicious cycle means “दुष्चक्र” in Hindi. In English: A sequence of events that reinforces itself negatively
What are the synonyms of vicious cycle?
Synonyms of vicious cycle: downward spiral, endless loop.
What is the opposite of vicious cycle?
Antonyms of vicious cycle: virtuous cycle.
Has vicious cycle been asked in SSC exams?
Yes – vicious cycle has been asked 3 times in SSC exams: SSC CGL 2024 T-1, SSC CPO 2024 T-1, SSC CHSL 2024 T-1.