Meaning of the word "have recourse to" in English

What does "have recourse to" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

have recourse to

US /hæv ˈriːkɔːrs tuː/
UK /hæv ˈriːkɔːs tuː/

Idiom

to use something or someone as a source of help in a difficult situation

Example:
When all else failed, they had to have recourse to legal action.
She had no one else to have recourse to for help.