slippery slope
Meaning
A situation where a small first step is believed to lead to a chain of events ending in serious or undesirable consequences.
Origin
From the literal image of a steep, slick incline where once you start sliding, it’s hard to stop—used metaphorically for progression toward worsening outcomes; common in argumentation and rhetoric (often as the “slippery slope” argument).
Notes
Often used as a warning that a small change will trigger bigger harmful changes. Also refers to a debated reasoning pattern (“slippery slope argument”) that can be criticized if unsupported.
Examples
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If we start making exceptions to the policy, we may be on a slippery slope to unfairness.
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He warned that censoring one book could be the first step on a slippery slope toward broader censorship.
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Taking on a little debt for emergencies is fine, but it can become a slippery slope if you rely on credit every month.
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Some critics argue that using facial recognition for minor crimes is a slippery slope to mass surveillance.
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Skipping workouts once in a while isn’t a big deal, but for me it’s a slippery slope to quitting altogether.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually used as a noun phrase: “a slippery slope,” “the slippery slope to X,” “on a slippery slope.” Often paired with verbs like “be,” “lead to,” “start,” “become.”
Synonyms
- dangerous path
- downward spiral
- domino effect (similar idea)
- chain reaction
Antonyms
- safe path
- stable situation