SLIPPERY SLOPE Meaning and
Definition
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Slippery slope refers to a hypothetical situation where a relatively simple or innocuous action or decision sets off a chain of events that gradually leads to more severe, undesirable, or unintended consequences. It suggests that taking an initial step in a certain direction opens the door to a series of increasingly detrimental or problematic outcomes.
In its literal sense, "slippery slope" describes a slope or surface that is difficult to maintain balance on due to its slippery nature, making it challenging to prevent sliding downwards. In a metaphorical context, it encompasses a cautionary concept, indicating that a seemingly harmless or minor action can initiate a sequence of events that may result in severe outcomes.
This term is frequently employed in various disciplines, including philosophy, politics, and law, as it highlights the unforeseen consequences that can arise from certain actions. For instance, in political discourse, the slippery slope argument is frequently employed to warn against certain legislative changes, proposing that allowing even a minor shift in policy can ultimately lead to significant negative implications.
It is important to note that slippery slope arguments do not dismiss the possibility of intervening factors or coherent counterarguments. However, they emphasize the potential dangers of disregarding the initial step's potential ripple effects, urging caution and critical thinking when considering a particular course of action.
Common Misspellings for SLIPPERY SLOPE
- alippery slope
- zlippery slope
- xlippery slope
- dlippery slope
- elippery slope
- wlippery slope
- skippery slope
- spippery slope
- soippery slope
- sluppery slope
- sljppery slope
- slkppery slope
- sloppery slope
- sl9ppery slope
- sl8ppery slope
- sliopery slope
- slilpery slope
- sli-pery slope
- sli0pery slope
- slipoery slope
Etymology of SLIPPERY SLOPE
The phrase "slippery slope" originates from the field of logic and argumentation. Its etymology can be traced back to ancient Greek and Roman philosophy. In Greek, the word συνεχής (synékhis) means "continuous", while the Latin word gradus refers to a "step" or "grade". The combination of these terms gives rise to the concept of a "continuous step" or "continual grade", representing a gradual descent or progression. Over time, this concept became associated with the notion of a dangerous or treacherous path that leads to unexpected and adverse consequences. Thus, the term "slippery slope" emerged within the sphere of philosophy and eventually found its way into everyday language to describe situations where an initial action or decision could lead to a series of increasingly undesirable outcomes.
Idioms with the word SLIPPERY SLOPE
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the/a slippery slope
The idiom "the/a slippery slope" refers to a situation or course of action that may appear harmless or insignificant at first, but can lead to more serious consequences or outcomes that are increasingly difficult to control or reverse. It suggests that engaging in certain actions or making certain decisions can set off a chain reaction of negative events or outcomes.
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a slippery slope
The idiom "a slippery slope" refers to a situation or course of action that appears to be mild or harmless in the beginning but has the potential to lead to serious consequences or negative outcomes that are difficult to control or reverse. It implies that taking one small step or making one decision could progressively and inevitably lead to a series of more severe or undesirable events.
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on a slippery slope
The idiom "on a slippery slope" refers to a situation or course of action that is gradually becoming increasingly harmful, dangerous, or problematic. It suggests that once the initial step is taken, it becomes difficult to stop or reverse the negative consequences, much like sliding down a slippery slope where it is hard to regain control or stop the descent.
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slippery slope
A slippery slope is a situation or course of action that is likely to lead to a bad or damaging outcome. It refers to the idea that once a negative action or decision is made, it can easily lead to further negative actions or decisions.
Similar spelling words for SLIPPERY SLOPE
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