expression, noun
A fixed expression meaning the final option when all else has failed. Often used with verbs like 取る, 使う, or 残す.
話し合いが決裂したら、最後の手段として法的手段を取るつもりだ。
If the negotiations break down, I intend to take legal action as a last resort.
彼は最後の手段として親に助けを求めた。
He asked his parents for help as a last resort.
Similar meaning but less common and slightly more formal; 最後の手段 is the everyday expression.
A transparent compound of 最後 (last) + の (possessive particle) + 手段 (means, method).