What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parliament
Example
The parliament passed a new law on education reform. [parliament: noun]
Example
The Prime Minister addressed the parliament on the issue of national security. [parliament: noun]
Example
The members of parliament engaged in a heated debate over the proposed tax bill. [parliament: noun]
congress
Example
The Congress passed a new bill on healthcare reform. [Congress: noun]
Example
The representatives from various countries gathered for an international congress on climate change. [congress: noun]
Example
The Congress is currently in session to discuss the budget proposal. [Congress: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Congress is more commonly used than Parliament in everyday language, especially in the United States. However, Parliament is more common in countries with a parliamentary system of government.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parliament and congress?
Both Parliament and Congress are formal terms used in political contexts. However, Congress may be more commonly used in informal contexts due to its frequent use in American media and popular culture.
