noun / verb
resort
A course of action turned to when preferable options are unavailable.
Calling a tow truck is our last resort tonight.
Etymology
The older verb means to go back or have recourse. A resort is an action one turns to for help, especially when preferred means are unavailable.
More examples
- When polite requests fail, we resort to filing a complaint.
- She resorted to borrowing money to cover the rent.
- Surgery is a last resort if medication fails.
Forms
resort · resorts · resorted · resorting
Similar words
- recourse
- Emphasizes turning to help or protection, not necessarily reluctantly.
- fallback
- Usually a planned backup rather than a reluctantly chosen action.