Translation guide
In Japanese, 'counterfeit bill' is most commonly expressed as 偽札 (にせさつ). Other terms exist for specific contexts, such as formal or legal settings.
The most common way to refer to a fake banknote or paper currency.
The standard, everyday term for a counterfeit bill. Used in news, conversation, and most situations.
A more formal or technical term, often used in legal or official contexts. Literally 'counterfeit paper currency'.
An older or literary term for counterfeit bill. Rarely used in modern conversation, but may appear in historical contexts.
When specifically referring to fake coins rather than paper money.
The standard term for counterfeit coin. Use this when the counterfeit is a coin, not a bill.
この五百円玉は偽硬貨かもしれない。
This 500 yen coin might be counterfeit.
If you mean play money or toy money (like Monopoly money), use おもちゃのお金 (おもちゃのおかね) or 遊び用のお金 (あそびようのおかね). 偽札 implies illegal counterfeit intended to deceive.
この一万円札は偽札だ。
This 10,000 yen bill is counterfeit.
偽札を見分ける方法を教えてください。
Please tell me how to spot counterfeit bills.
偽造紙幣の製造は重罪です。
Manufacturing counterfeit bills is a serious crime.
贋札が市場に出回った。
Counterfeit bills circulated in the market.
A formal term that can cover both counterfeit coins and bills. Often used in legal contexts.
偽造貨幣の使用は法律で禁じられている。
Using counterfeit currency is prohibited by law.