Broke: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is usually used informally to describe a temporary lack of money. It tends to be used in casual conversations among friends or in situations where someone wants to indicate that they do not currently have money but may have it again soon.

• I want to go out tonight, but I'm totally broke.
• He’s been broke ever since he lost his job last month.

This term is a legal status and is used formally to describe an individual or organization that cannot repay their debts. It involves legal proceedings and is not typically reversible in the short term.

• The company went bankrupt after years of financial troubles.
• She declared herself bankrupt to avoid further debt.

This term is used to emphasize a complete lack of money, often in a dramatic or literary context. It signifies having no money at all and can evoke a sense of hopelessness or despair.

• She arrived in the city, penniless and alone.
• After the robbery, he was left penniless.

This word describes a severe and extreme lack of money, resources, or possessions. It is often used to evoke sympathy or describe a desperate situation.

• After the economic collapse, many families were left destitute.
• He found himself destitute and living on the streets.

Used to describe a general situation where something has been damaged or no longer functions as it should.

• My computer broke yesterday
• The chair broke when he sat on it

Describes something that is completely broken into many pieces, often in a dramatic way. It has a strong connotation of total destruction.

• The vase shattered when it fell off the shelf
• The mirror shattered into a thousand pieces

Implies something was violently or forcefully broken into pieces. It often suggests a deliberate action or high impact.

• He smashed the pumpkin on the ground
• The car's window was smashed during the robbery

Used to depict a slight break or fissure on the surface of an object, usually not severe enough to completely ruin its function.

• The window cracked when the ball hit it
• He noticed a crack in the car's windshield