Translation guide
Describes goods that can be bought without paying certain local import taxes, typically in special airport shops or on international flights.
The learner wants to say that an item is free of customs duty, usually in the context of shopping while traveling internationally.
The standard term for 'duty-free' or 'tax-exempt'. Used as a noun or in compounds like 免税店 (duty-free shop).
This alcohol is duty-free.
It's cheaper if you buy it duty-free.
Attributive form meaning 'duty-free', used before a noun.
You can buy duty-free goods here.
Literally 'no tax'. Can mean duty-free but is less common and may refer to other tax exemptions. Often seen in formal or legal contexts.
There are limits on bringing in duty-free items.
The learner wants to talk about the store where duty-free goods are sold.
The standard word for 'duty-free shop'.
I bought cosmetics at the airport duty-free shop.
The learner wants to express the action of purchasing goods without paying duty.
免税 specifically refers to exemption from customs duty or consumption tax on goods brought into a country. 無税 is a broader term meaning 'tax-free' and can apply to other taxes. For shopping while traveling, 免税 is the correct choice.
Avoid literal translations like 義務無料 (ぎむむりょう) or 関税無料 (かんぜいむりょう). These are not used and will cause confusion. Stick to 免税.
Is this duty-free?
Where is the duty-free shop?
Loanword from English. Commonly understood, especially in tourist areas, but 免税店 is more natural in Japanese.
That duty-free shop has a good selection.
Those making duty-free purchases, please come to this counter.