means of survival; means of escape; way out of a difficulty
苦境の中に活路を見出した。
We found a way out in the midst of hardship.
新市場の開拓が活路になると信じた。
We believed that developing new markets would be our lifeline.
追い詰められたが活路は残されていた。
We were cornered, but a way out still remained.