Translation guide
The English word "broke" can mean having no money, being bankrupt, or being physically broken. This guide helps learners express these meanings naturally in Japanese.
Expressing that you have no money or are temporarily out of cash.
The most direct and common way to say you have no money. Neutral and widely used.
今、お金がないから、外食はできない。
I'm broke right now, so I can't eat out.
Describing a person or company that is legally bankrupt or financially ruined.
The standard term for 'bankrupt.' Used for both individuals and companies.
その会社は破産した。
The company went broke.
Describing something that is physically broken or not functioning.
The most common word for 'broken' when referring to objects, machines, etc.
この時計は壊れている。
This clock is broke.
Used for mechanical or electronic breakdowns. Slightly more formal than 壊れた.
In English, 'broke' can mean a bone fracture, but in Japanese, use 折れた (おれた) for broken bones, not 壊れた. 壊れた is for objects.
腕を折った。
I broke my arm.
Literally 'without a penny.' A bit more emphatic than お金がない, often used when you're completely out of money.
給料日前で文無しだ。
I'm broke until payday.
A colloquial, emphatic way to say completely broke or empty. Often used for wallets or bank accounts.
財布がすっからかんだ。
My wallet is completely empty.
Specifically refers to business bankruptcy or going under. Not used for individuals.
不況で多くの店が倒産した。
Many shops went broke due to the recession.
エアコンが故障した。
The air conditioner is broke.