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Region: General | Usage example: Calling in the consultant was a last resort.

Last resort

Meaning

A final option after others fail.

Usage

Used when discussing desperate measures.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Military fallback positions labeled as last resorts.

Used widely in policy and caregiving discussions.

Related Idioms

Have the last laugh

Be vindicated after others have doubted you.

Last straw

The final annoyance that triggers a reaction.

The last straw

The final annoyance that forces someone to act or break down.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.