English Reference
Idiom idiom

virtuous circle


A situation in which the solution to one problem makes each future problem easier to solve than the original one.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

Regular exercise creates a virtuous circle of better health and more energy.

CONTEXTUAL

The company invested in better staff training, which improved productivity and created a virtuous circle of growth and higher profits.

COMPLEX

By fostering a culture of transparency and mutual trust, the organization established a virtuous circle that consistently attracted top talent and encouraged innovation.


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    circle back

    To return to a previous location or state; to come back to.

  2. 02

    circle the drain

    To be in a rapid decline or in a state of downfall, especially as leading to an inevitable utter failure or destruction.

  3. 03

    circle the wagons

    To prepare to defend against an attack or criticism.

  4. 04

    come full circle

    To make a complete change or reform.

  5. 05

    full circle

    Through a cycle of transition, returning to where one started after gaining experience or exploring other things.

  6. 06

    go round in circles

    To repeatedly do the same thing without making any progress.

  7. 07

    inner circle

    The group comprising one's closest friends or associates.

  8. 08

    speak in circles

    Synonym of talk in circles.

Last updated August 10, 2026