8 Ways to Say “I’m Hungry”

I’m hungry! It’s a phrase we all use often—but did you know there are many ways to say it in English? Learning different expressions helps you sound more natural and match your tone to the situation, whether you’re texting a friend or asking politely at a restaurant.

Common Ways to Say “I’m Hungry”

Polite & Neutral

1. I’m feeling a bit hungry.
   A gentle, polite way to say you’d like to eat soon—great for work settings or with people you don’t know well.
   I’m feeling a bit hungry—would it be okay if we grabbed lunch soon?
2. I could eat something.
   A soft, indirect way to suggest you’re ready for food without sounding demanding.
   We’ve been hiking for hours—I could eat something!
3. I’m getting hungry.
   Used when hunger is starting to build—perfect for planning your next meal.
   It’s almost 1 p.m.—I’m getting hungry.

Casual & Common

4. I’m starving!
   Very common in everyday speech. It doesn’t mean you’re actually starving—just really hungry!
   Let’s order pizza—I’m starving!
5. I’m famished.
   A slightly more dramatic (but still natural) way to say you’re extremely hungry.
   After that long flight, I’m famished.
6. My stomach is growling.
   A literal and relatable way to describe hunger—often used with a laugh.
   Sorry, my stomach is growling—can we eat soon?

Playful & Expressive

7. I could eat a horse!
   A humorous exaggeration meaning you’re incredibly hungry.
   I skipped breakfast and lunch—I could eat a horse!
8. I’m ready to eat anything!
   Shows you’re so hungry, you don’t even care what’s for dinner.
   I haven’t eaten since this morning—I’m ready to eat anything!
9. Feed me!
   Playful and dramatic—best used with close friends or family.
   Mom, I’ve been studying all day—feed me!

Real-Life Dialogues

Aisha: Hey, are you free for lunch?
Ben: Yes! I’m starving—I haven’t eaten since breakfast.
Aisha: Same! Let’s go to that new taco place.

Dad: How was school?
Liam: Good! But I’m famished—what’s for dinner?
Dad: Spaghetti. Your favorite!

Jess: Ugh, my stomach is growling so loud.
Marcos: Mine too! I could eat a horse right now.
Jess: Let’s order takeout before we start eating the furniture!

Quick Tips: Choosing the Right Phrase

Situation	Recommended Expression	Why?
At work or with someone you respect	“I’m feeling a bit hungry.”	Polite and not too direct—shows good manners.
With friends or family	“I’m starving!” or “Feed me!”	Casual and fun—everyone understands it’s not literal.
When you’re really, really hungry	“I could eat a horse!”	Humorous and expressive—great for lightening the mood.

Why This Matters

• You’ll sound more natural and fluent in everyday conversations.
• Choosing the right tone helps you connect better with friends, coworkers, and strangers.
• Knowing playful phrases makes English more fun—and easier to remember!

Now you know 8 great ways to say “I’m hungry”! Try using one or two in your next conversation or text message. The more you practice, the more confident you’ll feel—and the tastier your English will become. Happy learning! 😊