go for broke: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘go for broke’ mean?
The idiom "go for broke" means to take a great risk or make a bold, all-out effort in pursuit of a goal, regardless of the potential consequences or failure.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "in for a penny, in for a pound" means that once you commit to doing something, you might as well fully commit and go all the way, regardless of the cost or consequences.
The idiom "in for a dime, in for a dollar" means that once you commit to something, you are fully committed and have to see it through to the end, regardless of the consequences or risks involved.
The idiom "high-stakes" refers to a situation in which there is a significant potential gain or loss, usually involving a lot of money or important consequences.
The idiom "here goes nothing" is used when someone is about to attempt something with little expectation of success. It conveys a sense of uncertainty or resignation about the outcome of the action.
The idiom "go wild" means to become extremely excited or enthusiastic, often losing control of one's behavior or actions.
The idiom "go to town" means to work or proceed vigorously and with enthusiasm.
The idiom "go to the wall" means to face defeat or failure, often in a financial or competitive context.
The idiom "go overboard" means to go to great or excessive lengths, often beyond what is necessary or reasonable. It implies an extreme or exaggerated action or behavior, often resulting from enthusiasm or excitement.
The idiom "go out on a limb" means to take a risk or to put oneself in a vulnerable position by expressing an opinion or taking an action that is not widely supported or accepted.
Decoding Risky Endeavors
The idiom "go for it" is closely related to "go for broke." Both phrases convey the idea of taking a risk and giving something one's full effort. While "go for broke" is often used in contexts where the risk is high and the stakes are significant, "go for it" is a more general expression that encourages action and daring. Both idioms share the underlying message of embracing challenges and not holding back.
The idiom "go for the gold" is another phrase that is connected to "go for broke." "Go for the gold" is commonly used in sports to encourage athletes to give their best performance and strive for victory. Just like "go for broke," it emphasizes the importance of going all-in and leaving nothing on the table. The phrase "go for the gold" captures the competitive nature of pursuing excellence and achieving success.
The history of the idiom "go for broke" is rooted in the experiences of the Japanese-American soldiers in World War II, specifically the members of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team. These soldiers demonstrated tremendous courage and determination, risking their lives for the greater cause. Their war cry of "Go for Broke" became a rallying call that embodied their unwavering commitment and willingness to go all out.
When we use the idiom "go for broke" today, we tap into that same spirit of fearlessness and dedication. Whether it's in our personal lives or our professional pursuits, we can draw inspiration from those who have come before us and shown us what it means to give everything we have.
There is power in embracing the unknown and pushing past our comfort zones. "Go for broke" encourages us to take chances and not let fear hold us back. It reminds us that the greatest rewards often come from taking calculated risks and fully committing ourselves.
Just like the soldiers of the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, we can approach life with a mindset of "go for broke." We can channel their unwavering resolve and use it to propel us forward, even in the face of uncertainty.
When we "go for broke," it doesn't mean that we are being reckless or careless. It means that we are fully aware of the risks involved, but we choose to push forward anyway. We believe in our abilities and trust that our efforts will not be in vain.
By embracing the "go for it" mentality, we give ourselves permission to dream big and pursue our goals with passion and determination. We refuse to settle for mediocrity and are willing to put in the hard work necessary to achieve greatness.
The phrase "go for the gold" is particularly relevant in competitive environments, where the pursuit of excellence is valued. Whether it's in sports or in the business world, those who aspire to greatness understand the importance of going all out and giving their best performance.
When we set our sights on the gold, we commit ourselves to reaching the pinnacle of our abilities. We are willing to make sacrifices, put in the extra hours, and go above and beyond what is expected. We understand that true success comes from pushing ourselves beyond our perceived limits.
"go for broke" is more than just an idiom. It is a mindset and a way of approaching life. It encourages us to take risks, embrace challenges, and give our all. Whether it's "go for it" or "go for the gold," these related idioms reinforce the message of unwavering commitment and determination. So, the next time you find yourself facing a daunting task or difficult decision, remember to "go for broke" and see where it takes you.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "go for broke" can be used in a sentence:
- Despite the risk involved, he decided to go for broke and invest his life savings in the new start-up.
- The team knew they had to go for broke if they wanted any chance of winning the game, so they played with a high level of aggression and intensity.
- She decided to go for broke and pursue her lifelong dream of becoming a professional dancer, even if it meant giving up her stable job.
More "Gamble" idioms
