The idiom “as a last resort” is used to describe a final option or measure that is taken only after all other alternatives have been tried and have failed. It often implies a choice that is less desirable or more extreme but necessary when no other solutions are available.
What does “as a last resort” mean?
Definition:
- To act or decide upon something only when all other options have been exhausted.
- To make a choice that serves as a backup plan in dire or urgent circumstances.
This idiom is commonly used to emphasize that a particular action is a fallback and not the first or preferred option.
Examples of “as a last resort” in sentences
In medical contexts:
“Call the doctor at home only as a last resort if the patient’s condition worsens significantly.”
“As a last resort, she will perform surgery if the medication does not work.”
In everyday decisions:
“We’ll try all the nearby hotels, but as a last resort, we can sleep in the car.”
“If the software fails to fix the issue, I’ll reinstall the operating system as a last resort.”
In problem-solving situations:
“They attempted negotiations, but as a last resort, they had to take legal action.”
“As a last resort, we could borrow money to cover the unexpected expenses.”
How to use “as a last resort” in conversation
This phrase is versatile and often used to express careful consideration before resorting to a specific course of action.
In advice:
“Don’t contact her at work unless it’s an emergency, and even then, only as a last resort.”
In emergency planning:
“We’ve planned multiple evacuation routes, but as a last resort, we’ll shelter in the basement.”
In describing prioritization:
“I prefer handling tasks myself, asking for help only as a last resort.”
Why use “as a last resort“?
The idiom adds depth to your language by emphasizing the importance of other options before considering the stated action. It conveys the weight of a decision and the reluctance to take a particular step unless absolutely necessary.
Conclusion
The idiom “as a last resort” captures the essence of making a decision only when all other alternatives have failed. Whether describing actions in emergency situations, problem-solving scenarios, or daily decision-making, it conveys the idea of a final, often reluctant choice.
