as a first resort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as a first resort" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate the initial option or action one should take in a given situation before considering alternatives. Example: "When faced with a problem, it is advisable to seek advice from a mentor as a first resort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

45 human-written examples

"They use violence or threatened violence as a first resort.

The Guardian

He said he would prefer spending cuts as a first resort, but found the increases tolerable.

The New York Times

(Ms. Quinn says she'll raise taxes if necessary, but not as a first resort).

The New York Times

Why is war being dealt with not as a last resort but as a first resort?

The New York Times

The administration describes pre-emption as something to employ in extremis, not as a first resort.

The New York Times - Magazine

The danger is they are being used as a first resort rather than a last resort.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

15 human-written examples

Unfortunately, the "have you tried powering it off and on?" approach — long favored as a first-resort by technical support staff on Earth — didn't work in space.

The Washington Post

It's time for a new approach that stops using arms sales as a tool of first resort in dealing with complex conflicts that would be better addressed through vigorous diplomacy.

Huffington Post

They have actively taken risks as an investor of first resort, not just a lender of last resort.

Harvard Business Review

It would effectively allow the use of military force as a matter of first resort against members of any terrorist group that the president so designates.

The New York Times

"New York State has done the right thing by committing to comprehensive reform of the way it uses extreme isolation, a harmful and inhumane practice that has for years been used as a punishment of first resort" in prisons, said Donna Lieberman, executive director of the organization.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "as a first resort", ensure the context clearly indicates that other options are available or might be considered later. This helps to avoid misinterpretations and shows a balanced approach.

Common error

Avoid framing "as a first resort" as the only solution. Instead, present it as a starting point that might lead to other strategies. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound simplistic or lacking in deeper analysis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as a first resort" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the timing or order in which an action is taken. It specifies that the action should be the initial approach to a problem or situation. Ludwig confirms that the phrase is grammatical and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as a first resort" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to indicate a recommended initial action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and general writing. When using "as a first resort", clarity is key: ensure your writing shows you have considered additional strategies or options. Remember, the goal is to suggest a sensible starting point, as an alternative to other options like using "as a primary option" or "as a first choice". Keep in mind the phrase communicates guidance and should reflect a balanced approach to problem-solving.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as a first choice

Highlights the idea of selecting something initially.

as the initial recourse

Similar to the original phrase but uses 'recourse' to emphasize seeking help or a solution.

as a primary option

Focuses on the idea of being a main or initial choice.

as a preliminary measure

Highlights that the action is done to prepare for something else.

as an initial step

Emphasizes the beginning stage of a process.

as a starting point

Suggests a place to begin an action or process.

as the first port of call

A more idiomatic way of suggesting the first place to go or action to take.

as the go-to solution

Highlights the idea of a reliable and easily accessible solution.

as the default option

Indicates a preselected or standard choice.

as an opening gambit

Implies that the action is the first in a series of strategic moves.

FAQs

What does "as a first resort" mean?

The phrase "as a first resort" means as the initial or preferred action to take when facing a problem or situation, before considering other options.

How can I use "as a first resort" in a sentence?

You can use "as a first resort" to indicate that something should be tried first before moving on to other alternatives. For example: "When faced with a technical issue, try restarting your computer "as a first resort"."

What can I say instead of "as a first resort"?

You can use alternatives like "as a primary option", "as a first choice", or "as an initial step" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "as a first resort" or "as a last resort"?

The choice between "as a first resort" and "as a last resort" depends on the intended meaning. "As a first resort" suggests an initial action, while "as a last resort" implies an action taken only after all other options have failed.