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

The U.S. is becoming “the supplier of last resort for an oil-starved world,” TradeStation’s head of global market strategy David Russell says in a note.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

It also said legal action was a "last resort" where "there is no reasonable alternative".

From BBC • Apr. 23, 2026

Quiet professionals understand that violence is risky and costly, and use it only as a last resort.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

Irish police chief Justin Kelly said the action was taken as a last resort.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

“Papi's not gonna like this, Nae,” I say as a last resort to keep her from ruining her life.

From "Pride" by Ibi Zoboi