Used and loved by millions
Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak
CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com
I'm broke
Grammar usage guide and real-world examplesAlternative expressions(2)
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Human-verified examples from authoritative sources
Exact Expressions
55 human-written examples
"I'm broke".
News & Media
"I'm broke," he said.
News & Media
Anyway, I'm broke.
News & Media
"I said, 'I'm broke.
News & Media
"I'm broke," I acknowledged.
News & Media
But it's 20 quid and I'm broke.
News & Media
"I lost everything, man, I'm broke.
News & Media
"I'm broke," she said, without knowing to what extent.
News & Media
Make her pay!" "I'd just say I'm broke".
News & Media
They'll say: 'What does he think, that I'm broke?
News & Media
Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources
Similar Expressions
1 human-written examples
"Basically, I'm broke-broke," he said.
News & Media
Expert writing Tips
Best practice
When using "I'm broke" in writing, consider your audience and the context. While appropriate in informal settings, more formal situations might require a more professional term such as "experiencing financial difficulties".
Common error
Avoid using "I'm broke" in formal communications such as business reports or academic papers. Opt for more suitable phrases like "facing budget constraints" or "experiencing a temporary shortage of funds".
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested
Linguistic Context
The phrase "I'm broke" primarily functions as a declarative statement expressing one's current financial status. As Ludwig AI shows, it is commonly used to convey a lack of funds, whether temporary or more prolonged.
Frequent in
News & Media
65%
Wiki
15%
Science
10%
Less common in
Formal & Business
5%
Reference
3%
Encyclopedias
2%
Ludwig's WRAP-UP
In summary, "I'm broke" is a common and informal way to express a lack of funds. As shown by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically correct and frequently used in news, media, and casual conversations. While it's appropriate in informal settings, it's best to use more formal alternatives in professional or academic contexts. Understanding its communicative purpose and register helps ensure its effective use in various situations. Remember to use alternative phrases like "I have no money" or "I'm experiencing financial difficulties" depending on the scenario. Overall, "I'm broke" is a clear and direct way to communicate your financial status, but always consider the context to ensure your message is delivered appropriately.
More alternative expressions(10)
Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:
I have no money
Directly states the absence of funds.
I'm penniless
Emphasizes a state of being without money.
I'm out of funds
Indicates that available money has been depleted.
I'm short on cash
Suggests a temporary lack of money.
I'm financially strapped
Highlights a difficult financial situation.
I'm in debt
Suggests owing money to others.
I'm insolvent
A more formal way of saying one cannot pay their debts.
I'm facing financial difficulties
A more general description of financial problems.
I'm hard up
An informal way of saying one is experiencing poverty.
I'm cleaned out
Indicates that all money has been spent or lost.
FAQs
What does "I'm broke" mean?
The phrase "I'm broke" means that you have no money or very little money at the moment. It's a common expression used to indicate a temporary or ongoing lack of funds.
How can I use "I'm broke" in a sentence?
You can use "I'm broke" in casual conversation, such as "I can't go to the movies tonight, I'm broke" or "I need to find a job soon, I'm broke and can't pay my bills".
What can I say instead of "I'm broke"?
You can use alternatives like "I have no money", "I'm penniless", or "I'm short on cash" depending on the context.
Is it appropriate to say "I'm broke" in a professional setting?
Generally, it's best to avoid saying "I'm broke" in professional settings. Instead, opt for more formal phrases such as "experiencing financial difficulties" or "facing budget constraints".
Editing plus AI, all in one place.
Stop switching between tools. Your AI writing partner for everything—polishing proposals, crafting emails, finding the right tone.
Table of contents
Usage summary
Human-verified examples
Expert writing tips
Linguistic context
Ludwig's wrap-up
Alternative expressions
FAQs
Source & Trust
84%
Authority and reliability
4.5/5
Expert rating
Real-world application tested