last resort

Idioms  

1. A final expedient or recourse to achieve some end or settle a difficulty. For example, If you don't improve, we'll try this new medication as a last resort. This term originally referred to a court of law from which there was no appeal. [Late 1600s]

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Example Sentences

War is a terrible thing that ought to be a last resort when all other means have failed.

From Slate • Jun. 16, 2026

"I need to consider the ages of these children… and proceed on the basis that custody is a last resort."

From BBC • Jun. 12, 2026

The Sentencing Council for England and Wales says that even in very serious cases, courts are expected to prioritise rehabilitation for children and use custody only as a last resort.

From BBC • May 27, 2026

Some teenagers feel betrayed by the bans, which mall owners implement as a last resort despite courting Gen Z shoppers.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 13, 2026

Mother was the court of last resort on household matters; there was no appeal, but I laid out my next suggestion anyway, feeble as it was.

From "The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Kelly