"Arrancao’" – Dominican slang for being broke

This word refers to someone who has no money at all—totally broke.

It’s used to describe a person who never seems to have cash or who is constantly struggling financially.

It’s often used in a humorous or casual way, but it can also reflect real financial hardship.

Synonyms in English: broke, penniless, flat broke, “in a tight spot,” “strapped for cash.”

Related Dominican expressions:

“Está en olla” → Literally "in the pot," meaning the same thing: completely broke.

“Sin ni uno” → "Without a single [peso]."

Example in context:

“No puedo salir este fin de semana, estoy arrancao’.” → “I can’t go out this weekend, I’m totally broke.”

It’s a very common term in everyday Dominican speech, and people often use it with a smile—even when the struggle is real.

Posted Apr 23, 2025, 4:34 PM UTC

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