recourse

/ɹɪˈkɔːs/

Group 23Difficulty 1/3

Definition

(noun)
A source of help in a difficult situation; the use of someone or something as a source of help
GRE

Example in Context

Workers who were denied overtime pay had little recourse, as the arbitration clause in their contracts prevented them from filing lawsuits.

Synonyms

optionresortalternative

Etymology

Running back to something for help when in trouble.

  • re- (Latin) — again
  • cursare (Latin) — to run

Memory Aid

🏫Sounds like “re course

When in doubt, it’s time to RE-COURSE back to class for HELP!

Visual Association

🆘A cartoon character running back to a superhero for help, waving a giant SOS sign.

Semantic Clusters

Synonym Groups

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “recourse” mean on the GRE?

recourse (noun) means “A source of help in a difficult situation; the use of someone or something as a source of help”. Workers who were denied overtime pay had little recourse, as the arbitration clause in their contracts prevented them from filing lawsuits.

How to remember “recourse” for the GRE?

Mnemonic: “recourse” sounds like “re course”. When in doubt, it’s time to RE-COURSE back to class for HELP!

What are synonyms for “recourse”?

Common synonyms: option, resort, alternative.