1.
underworld; criminal world; underground society
The hidden side of society where criminal and illicit activities take place. Encompasses organized crime, black markets, and illegal networks operating outside the law.
裏社会とのつながりが発覚した。
His connections to the underworld were exposed.
その映画は裏社会の実態を描いている。
That movie depicts the reality of the underworld.
警察は裏社会に流れる資金のルートを追っている。
The police are tracking the flow of funds into the underworld.
Literally "back society" or "reverse-side society." The prefix 裏 (back, hidden side) contrasts with 表 (front, public side), reflecting the idea of a hidden world operating behind the visible surface of society. Frequently encountered in crime fiction, news reports, and documentaries.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 裏社会の人間: people from the underworld
- 裏社会とのつながり: connections to the underworld
- 裏社会に足を踏み入れる: to set foot in the underworld
- 裏社会を牛耳る: to control the underworld
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 闇社会: dark society — nearly synonymous, slightly more dramatic
- 暗黒街: dark streets — emphasizes specific criminal districts
- 犯罪組織: criminal organization — refers to specific groups rather than the broader world