Recourse
/rɪˈkɔːrs/
Definitions
2 meaningsThe act of turning to someone or something for help or protection; a means of obtaining a remedy or satisfaction.
/rɪˈkɔːrs/
A source of help or protection in a difficult situation.
The citizens had no recourse but to protest the government's decision.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're in a pickle and need help. Recourse is like your go-to superhero – it's something or someone you turn to for help or a solution when things get tough. Like, if your favorite toy breaks, your recourse is your parents to fix or replace it!
👶 For kids: If something goes wrong, recourse is where you go to get help.
More Examples
She had no recourse to claim her rights.
The only recourse left was to appeal to the courts.
How It's Used
"The company has legal recourse if the contract is breached."
"We have recourse to the bank for a loan if necessary."
"After the accident, she had no recourse but to file a claim with her insurance."
The legal right to demand payment or redress.
/rɪˈkɔːrs/
The right to seek payment from someone.
The lender has recourse against the borrower.
💡 Simply: Imagine you lend a friend money and they don't pay you back. Recourse is the right you have to get your money back, like going to court or demanding payment.
👶 For kids: If someone owes you something, recourse is the right to ask them for it.
More Examples
The bond offers no recourse to investors if the issuer defaults.
The contract contained a clause outlining the recourse available to the parties involved.
How It's Used
"The bank has recourse against the borrower in case of default."
"The agreement provides for recourse in the event of a breach of contract."
Synonyms
Aid
Alternative
Assistance
Help
Option
Action
Claim
Demand
Entitlement
Idioms & expressions
without recourse
Without the right to claim payment or compensation.
"The contract was sold without recourse, meaning the seller wouldn't be responsible if the buyer couldn't collect."
From Middle English, from Old French recours, from recourir (“to run back, resort to”), from re- (“back, again”) + courir (“to run”).
Historically, the term has been used to describe a seeking of help or aid, often in times of difficulty or conflict. The meaning evolved over time, particularly in legal and financial contexts.
Memory tip
Think of 're-course' meaning 'to go back to a course of action' or a resource when in trouble.