1.
chain reaction
A series of events where each one causes or triggers the next. Used both in scientific contexts (nuclear/chemical chain reactions) and figuratively for cascading consequences.
連鎖反応が起きた。
A chain reaction occurred.
ひとつの失敗が連鎖反応を引き起こした。
One failure triggered a chain reaction.
銀行の破綻が経済全体に連鎖反応を及ぼす恐れがある。
There is a risk that a bank failure could cause a chain reaction across the entire economy.
USAGE:
Used both literally in science (nuclear fission, chemical reactions) and figuratively for cascading effects in economics, social situations, and daily life. The figurative use is very common in news and business contexts.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 連鎖反応を引き起こす (to trigger a chain reaction)
- 連鎖反応が起きる (a chain reaction occurs)
- 核連鎖反応 (nuclear chain reaction)