legitimate robbery
[/lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət ˈrɒbəri/]
noun phrasepl: legitimate robberies
roubo legítimo
1. A theft or taking of property that is considered justified, legal, or morally acceptable under specific circumstances, such as self-help remedies or lawful seizures
The creditor's legitimate robbery of the debtor's assets was sanctioned by the court order.
O roubo legítimo dos bens do devedor pelo credor foi sancionado pela ordem judicial.
2. In colloquial usage, an exorbitant or unfair price charged for goods or services that is technically legal but considered exploitative
Paying $15 for a coffee is a legitimate robbery that only tourists fall for.
Pagar 15 dólares por um café é um roubo legítimo que apenas turistas caem.
This phrase is paradoxical and typically used ironically in Brazilian Portuguese and English. In legal contexts, it refers to court-sanctioned seizures or lawful remedies. In everyday speech, especially in Brazil, it humorously describes outrageous prices or unfair deals that are technically legal but feel morally wrong—common critiques of tourist trap pricing in Rio and São Paulo.
NYC Slang
legal hustle / game / ripoff
Related Idioms & Phrases
daylight robbery (similar concept - overcharging)
to rob someone blind (opposite intent, illegal theft)
within the law but against justice
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