vicious · adjective /ˈvɪʃ.əs/Full view
vicious (VIOLENT)
C2 violent and dangerous
Dictionary examples:

a vicious attack on a child

a vicious dog

Learner example:

She was a real, vicious murderer. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)

vicious (UPSETTING)
C2 intended to upset someone
Dictionary example:

a vicious rumour

Learner example:

One advantage with this school that rose above the others, was the fact that there was virtually no cruel bullying or vicious teasing. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Swedish)

a vicious circle/cycle
C2 a continuing unpleasant situation, created when one problem causes another problem which then makes the first problem worse
Dictionary example:

Many people get trapped in a vicious circle of dieting and weight gain.

Learner example:

So we could say that it becomes a vicious circle. (Certificate of Proficiency in English; C2; Greek)

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