Meaning
To have no money at all, to be broke.
Cultural Background
In Spain, people often use 'estar sin blanca' or 'no tener ni un duro' as more colorful alternatives. Mexicans might say 'estar en la ruina' or 'estar pelado' to emphasize being broke. Argentines often use 'estar seco' (to be dry) to mean they have no money. Colombians might say 'estar limpio' (to be clean) to mean they have no money left.
Use 'estar' for states
Always use 'estar' for temporary conditions like being broke.
Don't use 'ser'
Never say 'soy sin dinero', as this implies you are permanently poor.
Meaning
To have no money at all, to be broke.
Use 'estar' for states
Always use 'estar' for temporary conditions like being broke.
Don't use 'ser'
Never say 'soy sin dinero', as this implies you are permanently poor.
Test Yourself
Complete the sentence.
Lo siento, no puedo ir, __________.
Use 'estoy' for the first person singular state.
Choose the correct verb.
Ellos ______ sin dinero.
Estar is the correct verb for a temporary state.
Complete the dialogue.
A: ¿Quieres comprar esto? B: No, ______.
This is the standard way to express being broke.
🎉 Score: /3
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
3 exercisesLo siento, no puedo ir, __________.
Use 'estoy' for the first person singular state.
Ellos ______ sin dinero.
Estar is the correct verb for a temporary state.
A: ¿Quieres comprar esto? B: No, ______.
This is the standard way to express being broke.
🎉 Score: /3
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questionsNo, it's very common among friends.
Better to use more formal language.
Yes, but 'estar sin dinero' is more idiomatic.
Related Phrases
Estar sin blanca
synonymTo be broke
No tener ni un duro
synonymTo not have a single cent
Estar en la ruina
synonymTo be ruined/broke
Estar pelado
synonymTo be broke
