Translation guide
The illegal trade of goods or services, often to avoid taxes, regulations, or bans. In Japanese, the most common term is 闇市 (yami-ichi), but other expressions exist depending on context.
Referring to the black market as a system or place where illegal trading occurs.
The standard term for 'black market,' especially for physical goods during shortages or post-war periods. Can also refer to modern illegal markets.
After the war, many people bought food on the black market.
A slightly more formal or economic term for 'black market.' Often used in news or analytical contexts.
The goods traded on the black market are diverse.
Loanword from English. Used occasionally, but 闇市 is more natural in most contexts.
Fake brand goods are sold on the black market.
Focusing on the black market for particular illegal goods.
Referring to the broader economic concept of unregulated, untaxed transactions.
Specifically for currency exchange at unofficial rates.
Do not translate 'black market' as 黒い市場 (kuroi ichiba). That is not idiomatic and will not be understood.
The prefix 闇 (yami) means 'dark' or 'illegal' and can be attached to many nouns to indicate black market or illegal activity, e.g., 闇バイト (yami baito, illegal part-time job), 闇サイト (yami saito, underground website).
When the black economy expands, tax revenue decreases.