# last resort

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/last-resort
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The only remaining, often least desirable, option when all others have been excluded.

## Examples

- We use the stairs only as a last resort.
- After trying every other repair method, we used the expensive new part as a last resort.
- The government viewed the implementation of strict economic sanctions as a last resort to resolve the escalating diplomatic crisis.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.