one last defense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "one last defense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a final measure or action taken to protect or justify something before a conclusion or decision is made. Example: "In the face of overwhelming evidence, the lawyer presented one last defense to sway the jury's opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

One last defense.

The New Yorker

Surrounded, the Spaniards tried one last defense: They put a large cross in the path of the attackers.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

It's "one on one" defense.

Huffington Post

But the Giants' defense had one last big play in it.

The New York Times - Sports

The defense made one last stand, forcing an Eagles punt that was shanked, and the Giants had the ball at the Eagles' 44-yard line with 1 51 left.

The New York Times - Sports

After the kick sailed straight and long, and after the Ravens' defense made one last stop, Titans fans filed silently toward the exits.

The New York Times - Sports

When a perpetrator has no reasonable defense and nearly all hope is gone there is always one last desperate play: blame the victim.

Huffington Post

MY3D SECTOR 17 Welcome to MY3D SECTOR 17, a one-of-a-kind 3D, 360 degree shooter game in which you are the galaxy's last defense.

TechCrunch

Morphine was the last defense.

The New Yorker

That last defense is Clinton's clincher.

The New York Times

I have stopped doing "one last thing".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing persuasively, strategically deploy "one last defense" to highlight a critical point, signaling that this is the ultimate argument or protective measure.

Common error

Avoid using "one last defense" if there are other potential strategies or actions that could be taken. The phrase should genuinely represent the final option available, or it loses its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "one last defense" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It signifies a final attempt to protect, justify, or preserve something. As seen in Ludwig, it is commonly used in news and media to highlight critical, end-stage actions.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "one last defense" is a phrase used to describe a final attempt to protect or justify something, carrying a sense of urgency and finality. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and best used when genuinely representing the final available option. While relatively rare, it is most commonly found in news and media and science contexts. Remember to use this phrase accurately to maximize its impact, and consider alternatives like "final stand" or "last line of defense" for nuanced variations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final stand

Emphasizes resistance and opposition as a last resort.

last line of defense

Highlights the ultimate protective barrier or strategy.

ultimate safeguard

Focuses on the concept of a definitive protective measure.

final recourse

Indicates the last available option or solution.

last resort

Highlights the desperation of the action being taken.

final attempt

Emphasizes the act of trying one more time before giving up.

last-ditch effort

Suggests a desperate, nearly hopeless attempt.

final measure

Focuses on the action taken as a concluding step.

last hope

Highlights that there are no more options.

final act of defiance

Emphasizes open resistance or disobedience.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "one last defense" in writing?

Employ "one last defense" to underscore the finality and importance of a protective measure or argument. This implies that all other options have been exhausted, making the current action critical.

What are some alternatives to using "one last defense"?

Consider using phrases like "final stand", "last line of defense", or "ultimate safeguard" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "one last defense" formal or informal?

"One last defense" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though its impact is strongest when the situation genuinely warrants a sense of finality or urgency.

Can "one last defense" be used in contexts other than physical protection?

Yes, "one last defense" can be used metaphorically in arguments, strategies, or any situation where a final protective measure is being employed to safeguard a position or idea.