parliament
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the group of elected people who make and change the laws of a country.
the supreme legislative body of a country, consisting of representatives who debate policy and enact legislation.
Simple“The new law was debated in parliament for several weeks before it was passed.”
In context“The prime minister addressed parliament to outline the government's proposed changes to the national healthcare system.”
UsageOften capitalized (Parliament) when referring to a specific national body, such as the UK Parliament.
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the period of time between two elections when the law-makers are working.
a particular assembly of members convened for a specific period, or the duration between two general elections.
Simple“The current parliament is expected to finish its work by next spring.”
In context“During the last parliament, several significant constitutional reforms were introduced despite heavy opposition from the minority parties.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a special name for a group of owls or rooks.
a collective noun used specifically for a group of owls or rooks.
Simple“In the old story, a parliament of owls gathered in the forest to make a decision.”
In context“The poet described a parliament of rooks perched high in the elm trees, their cawing filling the cold morning air.”
“Burnham has already asked his justice secretary to fast-track a plan for presentation to Parliament early next month to create more "headroom" in the prison system.”
“Along with electing a president and MPs, the more than eight million registered voters had the chance to choose a new parliament and local councils.”