1.
outrageous; exorbitant; unreasonable; absurd
Describes something that goes far beyond what is normal, acceptable, or reasonable. Most commonly used about prices, demands, or amounts that are shockingly excessive.
法外な値段だ。
That's an outrageous price.
法外な料金を請求された。
I was charged an exorbitant fee.
あの店は観光客に法外な金額を吹っかけることで有名だ。
That shop is famous for ripping off tourists with exorbitant prices.
A な-adjective literally meaning 'outside the law' (法 law + 外 outside), suggesting something that exceeds the bounds of what is acceptable. Despite the literal meaning, it is not a legal term — it describes extremes in everyday contexts, especially regarding money.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 法外な値段: outrageous price
- 法外な料金: exorbitant fee
- 法外な要求: unreasonable demand
- 法外な利息: exorbitant interest
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 高額: high amount — neutral, factual description of a large sum
- 不当: unjust, unfair — broader meaning, not limited to excessive amounts
- 途方もない: extraordinary, incredible — can be positive or negative