noun
yakuza member; gangster; professional gambler
Refers specifically to a member of a yakuza organization, often involved in gambling and other illegal activities. The term carries a strong underworld connotation.
See also: ヤクザ
彼はヤクザ者だと噂されている。
He is rumored to be a yakuza member.
ヤクザ者が経営する店には近づかないほう
It's best to stay away from shops run by gangsters.
noun
good-for-nothing; hoodlum; ruffian
Used more broadly for a worthless person or a thug, not necessarily a formal yakuza member. Often carries a derogatory tone.
あんなヤクザ者と付き合うのはやめなさい。
Stop associating with that good-for-nothing.
町のヤクザ者たちが夜中に騒いでいた。
The local hoodlums were making noise late at night.
A more formal and legal term for a member of a criminal syndicate, often used in news reports.
Compound of ヤクザ (yakuza, from a losing hand in a card game, later extended to mean 'good-for-nothing' or 'gangster') and 者 (もの, person).