Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

last resort

NOUN
a final recourse
Synonyms
WEAK
ace in the hole card up one's sleeve dernier ressort last expedient last hope last resource pis aller recourse resort trump card
ADJECTIVE
last-ditch
Synonyms
STRONG
eleventh-hour final last-ditch

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

“The IRS has lien and levy power to collect taxes. But to take your primary residence would require court action, which would be a last resort for collection,” Cordes said.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

They said they work closely with participants to improve their behavior — and turn to expulsion only as a last resort.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

Pitchford said he unsuccessfully tried to leave the army twice, before telling a forces doctor that he was gay to try to get a medical discharge as a last resort.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

For jockeys who were truly desperate, there was one last resort.

From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand