Domino effect
Meaning
A domino effect describes a chain reaction where a single event triggers a series of subsequent, related events, often with significant consequences.
Origin
The simple game of dominoes, with its distinctive rectangular tiles, traveled from 13th-century China to Europe by the 18th century. Yet, it wasn't until the 20th century that the specific act of arranging these tiles in a long, winding line and then toppling the first one—witnessing the rest fall in a perfectly predictable, satisfying cascade—became a powerful metaphor. This visceral image, of a minor push initiating an unstoppable chain reaction, perfectly captured complex sequential events. The phrase 'domino effect' surged into public consciousness, notably during the Cold War, when the 'domino theory' warned that if one nation in a region succumbed to communism, its neighbors would inevitably follow, just like a row of falling dominoes.
Examples
- The collapse of one major bank could lead to a domino effect throughout the entire financial system.
- Her decision to leave sparked a domino effect, causing several other team members to resign in quick succession.