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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.

Marines were given 12 rules for engaging with protesters, and Rule 1 was clear: Force “of any kind” was allowed only as a last resort.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

Even a defensive war must be a last resort after all other efforts to prevent aggression have failed.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 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

For, finally, as a last resort, Louise sent Mig to the kitchen, where Cook had a reputation for dealing effectively with difficult help.

From "The Tale of Despereaux: Being the Story of a Mouse, a Princess, Some Soup and a Spool of Thread" by Kate DiCamillo