The/a slippery slope

usgb
noun

A situation or course of action that will lead to a worse or harmful outcome.

Many people believe that lying to your partner is a slippery slope to a broken relationship.
Visual representation of "the/a slippery slope" - A situation or course of action that will lead to a worse or harmful outcome

Often appears as...

  • on a slippery slope
  • start a slippery slope

Usage tips

Idiomatic, Colloquial

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "the/a slippery slope"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphorical Meaning

The term is used metaphorically and does not refer to an actual slope.

Illustration for Metaphorical Meaning
Cheating on a test is a slippery slope to academic dishonesty.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Consequence

Emphasizes starting something seemingly harmless that leads to serious problems.

Illustration for Negative Consequence
That one drink might look tempting, but it's a slippery slope to addiction.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Strong Warning

Used to warn someone about the dangerous progression of events.

Illustration for Strong Warning
Ignoring small business losses can be a slippery slope to bankruptcy.
Visual representation of the word "The/a slippery slope"

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