Definition of resourcenext
1
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 But Abdalla’s growing profile has allegedly coincided with internal tensions over how the firm allocates its attention and resources. Tessa Solomon, ARTnews.com, 17 Sep. 2026 The funding is intended to help departments replenish resources used during the fire, including servicing trucks and covering fuel costs. Amelia Mugavero, CBS News, 17 Sep. 2026 On the other hand, the yeast could be a renewable and re-usable resource that only needs to be delivered once. Kiona N. Smith, Space.com, 17 Sep. 2026 Mind the Gap, a resource for teens and young adults in our region. Matt Leclercq, Charlotte Observer, 17 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resource
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resource
Noun
  • Their districts should be fairly competitive and balanced, which gives teams opportunity, whether that’s competing for a district title, earning a postseason berth or making significant improvements.
    Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Sep. 2026
  • This led him to seek financial sponsorship to study at Mkuyu Wildlife School, which eventually led him to the opportunity to become a guide at Usangu Expedition Camp, part of safari company Asilia Africa.
    Juliet Kinsman, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026
Noun
  • Lago, a longtime Underline supporter, crafted the initial deal years ago that gave the county $7 million in Gables funds to help construct the linear park.
    Michelle Marchante, Miami Herald, 18 Sep. 2026
  • The decision establishing the fund is very clear that contributions are voluntary and the act of contributing should not be interpreted as an acknowledgment of liability.
    Tarun Gopalakrishnan, The Conversation, 18 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resource.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resource. Accessed 23 Sep. 2026.

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