UNDER THE COUNTER Meaning and
Definition
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Under the counter is an idiomatic expression used to describe activities that are clandestine, illegal, or done in a secretive or hidden manner. It refers to transactions, deals, or exchanges that take place off the records or evade legal scrutiny, often involving the trade of illicit items, substances, or unregistered goods. The term is commonly associated with the black market, where goods or services are bought and sold without the knowledge or approval of relevant authorities, in order to avoid taxes, regulations, or prohibitions.
"Under the counter" can also pertain to activities conducted discreetly within a legitimate business or establishment, usually involving the sale of prohibited goods or services, such as selling alcohol after hours or without the required licenses. It implies the existence of an unregulated, parallel economy that operates outside the boundaries of legality and official oversight.
The origin of the phrase can be traced back to the practice of storing and selling goods discreetly beneath the counter or behind a shopkeeper's counter, out of public view, to evade detection or regulation. Over time, it has evolved to encompass a wide range of illegal or hidden transactions, always with the connotation of secrecy and subterfuge.
Common Misspellings for UNDER THE COUNTER
- under-the-counter
- under the couneter
- undr the couner
Idioms with the word UNDER THE COUNTER
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under the counter (or table)
The idiom "under the counter (or table)" refers to something that is done secretly or discreetly, often in violation of rules or regulations. It can also refer to something that is sold or offered in a covert or illegal manner.
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under the counter
The idiom "under the counter" refers to something being done secretly or in a hidden or illegal manner, usually involving the exchange of money or goods without official approval or oversight. It can also refer to items that are sold discreetly or illegally, often to avoid taxes or regulations.
