English Phrase of the Day

Definitions

English > English
last resort
1. n. The only remaining, often least-desirable, option when all others have been excluded
I wouldn't recommend doing surgery on yourself, unless it is a last resort.
Analysis
last		©
1. adj. Final, ultimate, coming after all others of its kind.
“Eyes Wide Shut” was the last film to be directed by Stanley Kubrick.
2. adj. Most recent, latest, last so far.
The last time I saw him, he was married.
I have received your note dated the 17th last, and am responding to say that....   (archaic usage)
resort		©
1. n. A place where people go for recreation, especially one with facilities such as lodgings, entertainment, and a relaxing environment.
2. n. Recourse, refuge (something or someone turned to for safety).
to have resort to violence
3. n. (obsolete) A place where one goes habitually; a haunt.
4. v. To have recourse (to), now especially from necessity or frustration.

Example Sentences

The prime minister and the pontiff will argue about whether war must always be an action of last resort and whether military action can ever be justified in view of the humanitarian harm that it causes.

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