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as in opportunity
something that one uses to accomplish an end especially when the usual means is not available we used every possible resource to raise the funds needed to save our town's oldest house

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word resource different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of resource are expedient, makeshift, resort, shift, and stopgap. While all these words mean "something one turns to in the absence of the usual means or source of supply," resource and resort apply to anything one falls back upon.

exhausted all of their resources
a last resort

When can expedient be used instead of resource?

The synonyms expedient and resource are sometimes interchangeable, but expedient may apply to any device or contrivance used when the usual one is not at hand or not possible.

a flimsy expedient

When could makeshift be used to replace resource?

The meanings of makeshift and resource largely overlap; however, makeshift implies an inferior expedient adopted because of urgent need or allowed through indifference.

old equipment employed as a makeshift

Where would shift be a reasonable alternative to resource?

While in some cases nearly identical to resource, shift implies a tentative or temporary imperfect expedient.

desperate shifts to stave off foreclosure

When is stopgap a more appropriate choice than resource?

Although the words stopgap and resource have much in common, stopgap applies to something used temporarily as an emergency measure.

a new law intended only as a stopgap

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resource Casualties are anticipated to rise in the coming days, and those in the region are asking for additional resources. Anna Lazarus Caplan, People.com, 1 Apr. 2025 Firelight supports, provides resources to and advocates on behalf of documentary filmmakers of color. Smith, who announced her departure from Firelight Media in July 2024, stayed on as interim president and CEO while the company held a nationwide search for her replacement. Addie Morfoot, Variety, 1 Apr. 2025 The lesson here is clear: Continuously strengthen your supplier relationships to navigate resource shortages with ease. Georges Berberi, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025 An Environmental Economic Incentives Program promotes forest conservation and sustainable family agriculture to conserve water resources. Karina Garcia, The Conversation, 31 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resource

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Cite this Entry

“Resource.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resource. Accessed 14 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on resource

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