B1nounformal5K

Congress

UK /["/ˈkɒŋɡres/"]/US /["/ˈkɑːŋɡrəs/"]/

Definition

a large formal meeting or series of meetings where representatives from different groups discuss ideas, make decisions, etc.

In simple words: A group of people who make laws for a country.

Examples

  • The Congress passed a new law to improve healthcare.
  • She attended the environmental Congress to discuss climate change.
  • The Congress is divided between two major political parties.
  • During the Congress, representatives from various states gathered to share their views.
  • Many citizens are skeptical about the decisions made by Congress.
  • The international Congress on education will take place next month.

Usage notes

Used primarily in formal contexts when discussing government or legislation. Less common in casual conversation unless related to politics. Avoid using in informal discussions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'congress' as a 'congregation' of lawmakers coming together.

Collocations

  • international
  • national
  • world
  • attend
  • address
  • convene
  • take place
  • adopt something
  • agree to something
  • attendee
  • delegate
  • participant
  • at a/​the congress
  • congress on
  • Democratic
  • Republican
  • call
  • suspend
  • dissolve
  • approve something
  • authorize something
  • enact something
  • member
  • leader
  • in congress
  • a member of Congress
  • a session of Congress

Synonyms

  • assembly
  • legislature
  • parliament
  • council
  • conference

Antonyms

  • disband
  • dismiss

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'congressional' which is an adjective.
  • Using as a verb; 'congress' is strictly a noun.