circular thinking

[ˈsɜːrkjələr ˈθɪŋkɪŋ]
noun
raciocínio circular
1. A logical fallacy in which the conclusion is used as a premise; reasoning that returns to its starting point without making progress or establishing validity
His argument was an example of circular thinking because he used the conclusion to support the premise.
Seu argumento era um exemplo de raciocínio circular porque ele usava a conclusão para apoiar a premissa.
2. Repetitive thought patterns that fail to resolve a problem or reach new understanding
The therapist helped her break free from circular thinking about her past mistakes.
A terapeuta ajudou-a a se libertar do raciocínio circular sobre seus erros passados.
This term is widely used in American psychology, education, and logic discourse. In Brazil, it appears frequently in academic and therapeutic contexts. The concept is increasingly discussed in digital culture and social media criticism regarding misinformation and echo chambers. Understanding circular thinking is considered important for critical thinking skills in both American and Brazilian educational systems.
NYC Slang
going in circles; round and round the mulberry bush
Synonyms / Sinônimos
begging the questionpetitio principiicircular reasoningvicious circleround reasoning
Antonyms / Antônimos
linear thinkinglogical reasoningprogressive thinkingsound reasoning

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
raciocínio circular
Most common standard term used in formal and academic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
raciocínio em volta
More colloquial variant sometimes used in informal speech
São Paulo
raciocínio circular
Formal standard usage in business and academic settings
Portugal
raciocínio circular; pensamento circular
Both terms accepted; slight preference for 'pensamento circular' in some contexts

Related Words

logical fallacyargumentaçãofalácia lógicapensamento recursivo

Related Idioms & Phrases

going round in circles
chasing one's tail
eating one's own tail
a dog chasing its own tail
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