first resort

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "first resort" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means the first option or choice that one turns to when faced with a problem or decision. Example: Seeking help from a therapist should not be your first resort when dealing with stress and anxiety. It's important to try relaxation techniques and self-care practices first.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Travel

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Starvation was the punishment of first resort.

The New York Times

"Tax increases should not be the first resort".

The New York Times

L'Wren Scott's first resort collection began innocently enough.

The New York Times

So it's not usually the method of first resort.

The Washington Post

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

The Guardian

"They are the first resort of the superficial".

The New York Times - Arts

The first resort, a Fairmont, opened in May 2006.

The New York Times

Amen to that: force should never be the unthinking first resort.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

A lockout should be the last resort in bargaining, not the strategy of first resort".

The New York Times - Sports

And I'm fine with abortion being a woman's first resort.

Huffington Post

S. went to First Resort the day before her appointment in Oakland, unsure what to expect.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "first resort" to clearly indicate the initial or most immediate approach to solving a problem or addressing a situation. This helps in setting expectations and clarifying priorities.

Common error

Avoid using "first resort" when you actually mean the most effective or ideal solution. "First resort" simply means the initial approach, which may not always be the best one.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "first resort" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as a predicate nominative or within prepositional phrases. It identifies the initial option or strategy considered when addressing a problem or situation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Travel

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "first resort" is a common noun phrase that denotes the initial action or option one turns to when facing a problem or decision. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used in a variety of contexts, particularly in News & Media. While it is important to ensure that "first resort" is not confused with the best solution, using the phrase correctly can effectively communicate the preliminary steps taken in a given situation. Related phrases include "primary option" and "initial choice". Using "first resort" appropriately helps clarify priorities and set expectations in writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

primary option

Focuses on the order of preference rather than the urgency or default nature.

initial choice

Emphasizes the selection aspect at the beginning of a process or decision.

preferred method

Highlights a sense of desirability and suitability over other options.

go-to solution

Indicates a reliable and frequently used remedy or approach.

first line of defense

Implies a protective measure that is immediately activated against a threat.

starting point

Highlights the beginning of a process, emphasizing initiation rather than preference.

default setting

Focuses on an automatically selected option when no other choice is specified.

quick fix

Stresses the speed and convenience of a solution, rather than its priority.

initial step

Highlights the first action taken in a series of steps.

easy answer

Suggests simplicity and accessibility, rather than priority or preference.

FAQs

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

Use "first resort" to describe the initial action taken when facing a problem. For example, "For minor injuries, cleaning the wound should be the "first resort"".

What are some alternatives to saying "first resort"?

You can use alternatives like "primary option", "initial choice", or "preferred method" depending on the specific context.

Is it always good to use the "first resort"?

Not necessarily. The ""first resort"" is simply the initial approach. The best course of action may require considering other options after evaluating the initial approach.

What's the difference between "first resort" and "last resort"?

"First resort" refers to the initial action or choice, while "last resort" indicates the final option considered when all other options have failed.