Is It Resort to or Result To?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever been confused about whether to use “resort to” or “result to” in your writing? You’re not alone!

These two phrases sound similar but have very different meanings. In this article, we will explore the differences between these phrases and provide examples of how to use them correctly.

What does “resort to” mean?

When you “resort to” something, it means that you are using a method or strategy as a last option. It is often used in negative contexts, indicating that other options have failed or that the person has no other choice. For example:

  • I had no choice but to resort to using my credit card.
  • The company had to resort to layoffs due to budget cuts.

What does “result to” mean?

On the other hand, “result to” means that something is caused by a particular action or decision. It is often used in reference to negative consequences that occur as a result of someone’s actions. For example:

  • The argument resulted in hurt feelings on both sides.
  • Skipping meals can result in low energy levels throughout the day.

Examples of correct usage

Let’s take a look at some examples of both phrases being used correctly:

“Resort To”:

  • After trying every possible solution, she had no choice but to resort to borrowing money from her parents.
  • The team was losing badly and decided to resort to desperate measures, like cheating.

“Result To”:

  • The company’s poor financial decisions resulted in bankruptcy.
  • His lack of preparation resulted in a poor grade on the exam.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

One common mistake is using “result to” when you really mean “resort to”. For example, saying “I had no choice but to result to borrowing money” would be incorrect.

Another mistake is using “resort to” in situations where it doesn’t make sense. For example, saying “The good weather resulted in us going for a swim” would be incorrect.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the difference between “resort to” and “result to” can help improve your writing and communication. Remember that “resort to” indicates a last option or desperate measure, while “result to” indicates a consequence of someone’s actions or decisions. With these tips in mind, you can confidently use these phrases correctly in your writing.