Circular dependency
interdependence of two system modules, often causing problems in software engineering
In software engineering, a circular dependency (or cyclic dependency) is a relation between two or more modules which either directly or indirectly depend on each other to function properly. Such modules are also known as mutually recursive.
Overview
Circular dependencies are natural in many domain models where certain objects of the same domain depend on each other. However, in software design, circular dependencies between larger software modules are considered an anti-pattern because of their negative effects. Despite this, such circular (or cyclic) dependencies have been found to be widespread among the source files of real-world software. Mutually recursive modules are, however, somewhat common in functional programming, where inductive and recursive definitions are often encouraged.
Problems
Circular dependencies can cause many unwanted effects in software programs. Most problematic from a software design point of view is the tight coupling of the mutually dependent modules which reduces or makes impossible the separate re-use of a single module.
Circular dependencies can cause a domino effect when a small local change in one module spreads into other modules and has unwanted global effects (program errors, compile errors). Circular dependencies can also result in infinite recursions or other unexpected failures.
Begin with the source’s own compact description: “Circular dependency” is interdependence of two system modules, often causing problems in software engineering. The dossier treats that line as a proposition to test through Circular, dependency and interdependence, not as a finished interpretation.
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