Domino effect

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For other uses, see Domino Effect (disambiguation).
Domino effect events
(Top) Dominoes are standing. (Bottom) Dominoes are in motion.

A domino effect or chain reaction is the cumulative effect produced when one event sets off a chain of similar events.[1] The term is best known as a mechanical effect, and is used as an analogy to a falling row of dominoes. It typically refers to a linked sequence of events where the time between successive events is relatively small. It can be used literally (an observed series of actual collisions) or metaphorically (causal linkages within systems such as global finance or politics).

See also[edit]

Relevant physical theory:

Mathematical theory

Political theory


  1. ^ "domino effect". The Free Dictionary. Farlex, Inc. Retrieved 29 September 2014.