Definitions

slippery slope

NOUN

domino effect

Synonyms

WEAK

causal sequence cause and effect chain of events contagion effect domino theory knock-on knock-on effect ripple effect

NOUN

primrose path

Synonyms

WEAK

garden path life of ease path of least resistance

NOUN

ripple effect

Synonyms

WEAK

causal sequence contagion effect dispersion dissemination domino effect knock-on effect overspreading sprawl

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But letting the popularity of an activity determine its legality is a slippery slope.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 14, 2026

Admittedly, answering emails on the weekend can be a slippery slope.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 18, 2026

Another practical argument against the bill has been concerns about a "slippery slope", with campaigners pointing to Belgium and Canada where assisted deaths have risen as eligibility criteria have expanded.

From BBC • Mar. 16, 2026

Workers say that could be the first step down a slippery slope that leads to layoffs and damage to patient health.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 6, 2026

The world of plants is a slippery slope.

From "Counting by 7s" by Holly Goldberg Sloan

slippery slope

Example Sentences

Related Words