el último recurso
/el ultimo ɾekuɾso/from spelling rules
In Spanish, the phrase for "the last resort" is el último recurso.
This phrase is used to describe a final option used only after every other possibility has failed.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase el último recurso is composed of el (the), último (last) and recurso (resource/resort).
Which one should you use?
While el último recurso refers to a tool or method, la última instancia is often used in legal or formal contexts to refer to the final stage of a process or appeal.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Mexico, la última opción is commonly used in informal settings.
How do you pronounce it?
/el ultimo ɾekuɾso/
Did you know?
- If you are at your wits' end and have no more options, you might say estoy contra la pared, which means 'I am against the wall', rather than using the word 'recurso'.
- The word recurso shares its Latin ancestor with the English word 'recur', meaning both words involve a 'running back' or a return to a previous state.
- While el último recurso describes a method, if you are talking about a person who is your last hope, you might say they are tu última esperanza, as calling a person a recurso can sound objectifying.
Examples in context
- Cuando solo queda la muerte, el último recurso es rogar por comida.When only death remains, the last resort is to beg for food.This sentence is useful for illustrating how to use el último recurso in a sentence about a desperate situation.Tatoeba #1110872 by jmdm78, translation #997785 by NickC
- El diálogo es siempre el último recurso para resolver conflictos diplomáticos.Dialogue is always the last resort to resolve diplomatic conflicts.
- La cirugía es la última opción que debemos considerar para tratar su condición.Surgery is the last option we should consider to treat your condition.
- Si no podemos encontrar un atajo, cruzar la autopista sería nuestra última opción posible.If we can't find a shortcut, crossing the highway would be our last possible option.
- Si el problema persiste, cancelar el evento sería lo último que queda por hacer.If the problem persists, canceling the event would be the last thing left to do.
- La medicina será el último recurso.Medicine will be the last resort.
- No quiero que el préstamo sea el último recurso.I do not want the loan to be the last resort.
Example conversation
Sofía and Javier are discussing their company' enough budget.
- SofíaNo tenemos más dinero para el proyecto.We don't have any more money for the project.
- JavierEntonces, ¿el banco es el último recurso?So, is the bank the last resort?
- SofíaSí, Javier, es nuestra única opción ahora.Yes, Javier, it is our only option now.
- JavierEstá bien, intentaré hablar con el gerente.Alright, I will try to speak with the manager.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries el, recurso, último, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
