noun
back lane; back street; byway
A narrow, less-traveled road or alley, often away from main streets. Used literally for physical paths.
裏道を通って駅まで近道した。
I took a shortcut to the station through the back streets.
この裏道は夜は暗
This back lane is dark and dangerous at night.
noun
unfair means; dishonest means; underhanded way
Figurative use: a shady or improper method, often implying evasion of rules or norms. Common in phrases like 裏道を使う.
彼は裏道を使って入試に合格したらしい。
He apparently passed the entrance exam using underhanded means.
裏道を通さずに正々堂々と勝負しよう。
Let's compete fairly without resorting to dishonest methods.