last resort: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘last resort’ mean?
The idiom "last resort" refers to the final option or action taken when all others have failed or been exhausted.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "last word" refers to the final thing that is said or done in a discussion or argument. It implies the idea of having the ultimate say or control over a situation, often in a way that asserts authority or dominance.
The idiom "last trump" refers to a final and decisive event or action, often used in religious or biblical contexts. It suggests a significant and ultimate occurrence that marks the end of something.
The idiom "last thing one needs" refers to something that is not wanted or desired, an additional burden or problem that comes at an inconvenient time or adds more stress to an already difficult situation.
The idiom "last thing" means the final action or event that occurs before a particular time or event. It emphasizes the timing or order in which something happens. It can also refer to the least important or least desirable action or event in a sequence.
The idiom "last straw" refers to the final incident or event that causes someone to reach their limit or to have had enough. It is the tipping point after which a person can no longer tolerate a situation or behavior.
An idiom that means the final or last gathering or collection of something or someone, often used to express the end or conclusion of a particular event, activity, or period of time.
The idiom "last nail in the coffin" refers to a final event or action that ensures the failure or death of something or someone.
The idiom "last minute" refers to the final moments before a deadline or event. It suggests that something is done or happens with very little time or notice remaining, often causing rushed or stressful situations.
The idiom "last hurrah" refers to a final attempt or effort, often undertaken just before the end of a person's career or a particular situation. It signifies a final moment of glory or excitement before things come to an end.
The idiom "last hurrah" refers to a final act or effort that is done with enthusiasm and energy before the end. It signifies a celebratory or spirited ending, and it has become widely used in American English.
The idiom "last full measure" signifies giving complete and utmost effort or sacrifice, often in the context of one's duty or commitment. It implies going above and beyond what is expected, leaving no reserves, and giving everything until the very end.
Resorting to Desperation
The idiom "last resort" is a popular expression in English. It means the final option or ultimate course of action in a given situation. The term originated from the legal concept and has since expanded to encompass a broader meaning in everyday language.
In this idiom, "resort" refers to a place of refuge or a course of action taken in response to a particular circumstance. "Last" indicates that this action is the final one, when all other options have been exhausted or deemed ineffective. It denotes a state of desperation or a critical moment when no other alternative remains.
The origin of this idiom can be traced back to the legal system, particularly the 17th-century English common law. In legal terms, a "last resort" was the final means of seeking justice or obtaining a fair outcome in a legal dispute. It denoted the last avenue available to individuals who had exhausted all other legal remedies or had no other recourse to assert their rights.
Over time, the phrase "last resort" extended its meaning beyond law to everyday language. It became a metaphorical expression applicable to many situations. This expansion in usage reflects the adaptability and flexibility of idioms in English.
When used in contemporary speech, the idiom "last resort" describes a situation where all other options have failed or are unsatisfactory, compelling individuals or groups to resort to a final course of action. This action is portrayed as a necessity, highlighting the urgency and gravity of the situation.
The idiom "last-ditch" is closely related to "last resort". It refers to a final effort made to achieve a goal or avoid a disaster. It implies that the situation has reached a critical point and there are no other options left. It adds a sense of urgency and determination to the concept of a last resort.
Another related idiom is "last thing". This phrase is often used to mean something that is unexpectedly or undesirably done or experienced. It conveys the idea that the particular action or situation is the least preferred or expected outcome. When combined with "last resort," it emphasizes the unwanted nature of the final course of action.
"last thing one needs" is an idiomatic expression used to describe something that is the least desired or preferred in a given situation. It emphasizes the negative impact or inconvenience caused by the particular action or outcome. When used in relation to "last resort," it highlights the undesirable nature of having to resort to the final option.
The idiom "at a pinch" is also connected to "last resort". It means as a last resort or in an emergency when no other options are available. It implies that the action taken is not ideal or preferred but is done out of necessity. "At a pinch" emphasizes the urgent and critical nature of needing to resort to the final course of action.
"and finally", although not an idiom itself, is a phrase commonly used to signal the last point or topic in a series or discussion. It signifies the conclusion or the end of a sequence of events. When used in conjunction with "last resort," it adds a sense of closure or finality to the ultimate course of action.
Since idioms are deeply embedded in a language's cultural and linguistic history, the exact date of the idiom's first appearance in written form or its earliest usage remains uncertain. It is worth noting that idioms, like "last resort," often evolve over time and may differ slightly in different regions or contexts.
The idiom "last resort" is an essential part of the English language. It serves as a vivid expression for conveying the concept of a final action or option. While its origins may have originated from the legal field, its versatility and widespread usage make it a valuable phrase in a variety of situations. Understanding the etymology and meaning of idioms like "last resort" contributes to a more comprehensive grasp of the English language's rich tapestry of expression.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "last resort" can be used in a sentence:
- When all other treatment options failed, surgery became the last resort.
- He tried every possible way to fix the issue, but quitting seemed to be his last resort.
- The negotiators were unable to reach an agreement, so calling for a strike became their last resort.
More "Final" idioms
We missed the mark - nothing found.
