Definition

Noun: The British legislative body. It is the supreme legislative authority in the United Kingdom, consisting of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords, along with the Sovereign (the King or Queen).

Usage

The term "British Parliament" is a proper noun used to refer specifically to the national parliament of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It is used to discuss its history, functions, procedures, and decisions.

Examples

• A new bill was debated in the British Parliament yesterday.
• The British Parliament is one of the oldest continuous representative assemblies in the world.
• The Prime Minister answers questions from members of the British Parliament every week.

Advanced Usage

• "Act of Parliament": A law that has been formally passed by the British Parliament and received royal assent.
  • The Reform Act 1832 was a landmark Act of Parliament.
• "Member of Parliament (MP)": A person elected to represent a constituency in the House of Commons.
  • She is the Member of Parliament for Brighton Pavilion.

Variants and Related Words

• Parliament (noun): Often used as a shortened form when the context is clearly about the UK. (e.g., )
• Westminster: A common metonym for the British Parliament, named for the Palace of Westminster where it meets.
  • The decision from Westminster will affect the whole country.
• Houses of Parliament: Refers specifically to the building where the British Parliament meets.

Synonyms

• The legislature (of the United Kingdom)
• Westminster

Related Phrases

• To be dissolved: Refers to the formal ending of a Parliament before a general election.
  • Parliament was dissolved ahead of the July election.
• To be in session: Refers to the period when Parliament is actively meeting to conduct business.
  • Parliament is in session from September to July.

Noun

1. the British legislative body