last resort

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]

Example Sentences

The three countries said they had "no choice" but to bring back the sweeping measures against Tehran "as a last resort" over its "continued nuclear escalation" and lack of cooperation.

From BBC

Charmaine Hines views surgery as a "last resort" because of the costs involved and the possible scarring she might be left with.

From BBC

In general, “the truth is that no union and no management should ever want a strike — that is the tool of last resort,” Astin said.

From Los Angeles Times

“We have to try to do something, and it’s one of the things that’s kind of our last resort.”

From Salon

He described the proposed safe parking program as a “last resort” when there is no access to housing vouchers or other types of shelter.

From Los Angeles Times