Ultima Ratio

C2 16+

Pronunciation: /ʌltɪmə ˈreɪʃiˌoʊ/

Definitions of ultima ratio

noun The word 'ultima ratio' is a noun, referring to the final argument or resource in a dispute or difficulty.

Example Sentences

A1 The ultima ratio for the student was to ask the teacher for help.

A2 In desperate situations, calling 911 is often seen as the ultima ratio.

B1 The ultima ratio for the company was to declare bankruptcy.

B2 As a last resort, the ultima ratio may be to take legal action.

C1 The ultima ratio for the government was to deploy military forces.

C2 The ultima ratio in times of war is often to use nuclear weapons.

Examples of ultima ratio in a Sentence

formal The ultima ratio is the final argument in a debate or discussion.

informal When all else fails, the ultima ratio is to walk away.

slang In a street fight, the ultima ratio is to hit them where it hurts.

figurative For him, the ultima ratio is to always follow his gut instinct.

Grammatical Forms of ultima ratio

plural

ultimae

comparative

more ultima

superlative

most ultima

present tense

ultima ratio

future tense

will be ultima ratio

perfect tense

has been ultima ratio

continuous tense

is being ultima ratio

singular

ultima ratio

positive degree

ultima ratio

infinitive

to ultima ratio

gerund

ultima ratio-ing

participle

ultima ratio-ed

Origin and Evolution of ultima ratio

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: Latin
Story behind the word: The phrase 'ultima ratio' is of Latin origin.
Evolution of the word: Originally used in the context of military strategy by King Louis XIV of France in the late 17th century, 'ultima ratio' evolved to represent the final and ultimate argument or resort in any situation.