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

That has led some to argue it is being used beyond the general understanding that it would only be used as a last resort.

From BBC • Mar. 22, 2026

Waiting lists have not been used in over a decade and are widely viewed as a last resort, per KFF.

From Salon • Mar. 19, 2026

Some young people only turn to artificial-intelligence chatbots as a last resort, citing concerns about relationships, creativity, the environment and more.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 14, 2026

The government can elect to expressly be a buyer of last resort by only supporting suppliers when demand is weak, thus promoting more consistent production.

From Barron's • Mar. 9, 2026

I wouldn’t ask them for money except as my very last resort.

From "The Name of the Wind" by Patrick Rothfuss