What does the idiom "flat broke" mean?
Are you using the idiom flat broke but not sure about its meaning? Using idioms, which are important elements of spoken and written language, in the right place strengthens your language skills. Examine the meaning of the flat broke idiom and the situations in which it is used.
Meaning of "flat broke"
Meaning
The phrase 'flat broke' means to be completely without money, or be in a financially destitute state.
Etymology
The term 'flat broke' is believed to have originated in early 20th century American English. It is thought to come from the long-standing phrase 'flat busted', which was used to describe someone who was so broke that they had been reduced to begging or borrowing money. The main difference between 'flat busted' and 'flat broke' is that the latter is used more commonly and is less offensive.
Usage
The phrase 'flat broke' can be used both literally and figuratively. It is used to communicate that someone is in a dire financial situation and has exhausted or has no money left. It is also used in a more figurative sense to express a feeling of financial helplessness or being completely out of options. The phrase can also be used as a humorous way to express a lack of funds.
Example Sentences
- I'm so flat broke that I had to borrow money from my parents just to buy groceries.
- After I got laid off, I was flat broke for months until I found a new job.
- I had a great time on vacation but now I'm completely flat broke.
Idioms have a common language
"The early bird catches the worm" is an English idiom that means that those who wake up early and start their day early are more likely to succeed. A similar idiom in Spanish is "El que madruga, Dios le ayuda," which translates to "God helps those who rise early." This idiom emphasizes the importance of starting the day early in order to achieve success.
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