may resort to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "may resort to" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing options or alternatives that someone might consider in a particular situation. Example: "In times of crisis, individuals may resort to unconventional methods to solve their problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

During May and June, they may resort to gnawing on trees for food.

Wikipedia

She may resort to new taxes.

The Economist

In that case, he may resort to outright violence.

The Economist

Some people and businesses may resort to bartering.

The Washington Post

The problem is, managers may resort to short-term manipulations.

Harvard Business Review

To make more internal funds available, managers may resort to corporate tax avoidance.

Columbia University

Otherwise, the city may resort to layoffs and elimination of some outreach programs.

The New York Times

His recent diatribes against Iranian and Shia influence suggest he may resort to such tactics again.

The Economist

The government may resort to more regulation to lower roaming charges.

The Economist

Without herring or hake to feed their chicks, desperate terns may resort to larger butterfish.

The Economist

Politicians, feeling sudden pressure, may resort to subsidies and other quick fixes to provide temporary relief.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "may resort to", ensure the context clearly indicates that the action is a possible, but not necessarily desirable or first-choice, option. It often implies a sense of limited alternatives or a shift in strategy.

Common error

Avoid using "may resort to" excessively in formal or academic writing when a more direct or proactive verb would be more appropriate. Opt for phrases that convey intention or planning rather than implying a contingency.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "may resort to" functions as a modal verb phrase indicating a possibility or contingency. It suggests that an action is not the first or preferred choice, but a potential option under certain circumstances. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

37%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

1%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "may resort to" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a possible, often less desirable, course of action. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely applicable, as shown by the large number of examples, across contexts ranging from News & Media to Science. While generally neutral in tone, it's best to ensure the context supports the implied sense of contingency. Consider alternatives like "might turn to" or "could consider" for subtle shifts in meaning. Avoid overuse in highly formal writing, where direct and proactive language is preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

might turn to

Expresses a similar sense of possibility but often implies a shift in strategy or preference.

could consider

Indicates a potential option, with an emphasis on evaluation or deliberation.

might contemplate

Suggests a more thoughtful or prolonged consideration of an action.

may contemplate

Suggests a more thoughtful or prolonged consideration of an action.

might embrace

Emphasizes a willing adoption of a strategy, even if unconventional.

could adopt

Focuses on the act of choosing and implementing a specific approach.

might utilize

Highlights the practical application of a tool or method.

could employ

Similar to "utilize", but often implies a strategic or calculated use.

may have recourse to

Indicates turning to something for help or protection, particularly in a difficult situation.

might fall back on

Suggests relying on a backup plan or a previously used strategy.

FAQs

How can I use "may resort to" in a sentence?

Use "may resort to" when describing a possible course of action that someone might take, often implying it's not the first choice but a potential necessity. For example, "If negotiations fail, the company "may resort to" layoffs".

What are some alternatives to "may resort to"?

You can use alternatives like "might turn to", "could consider", or "might embrace", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "may resort to"?

It's appropriate when the action is a possible consequence of a particular situation, especially when other options are exhausted or deemed less desirable. It indicates contingency.

Is "may resort to" formal or informal?

The phrase "may resort to" is generally neutral, fitting in various contexts from news reports to academic discussions. However, in highly formal settings, consider a more direct or precise alternative to avoid implying reluctance or desperation. You could also use the phrase "may have recourse to".