Congress: meaning, definitions and examples

A formal meeting where representatives from various groups discuss actions or decisions, often related to legislation or major organizational changes.

• The annual medical congress will discuss the latest breakthroughs in cancer research.
• The congress is debating the new healthcare bill this week.

A larger, formal meeting usually organized to discuss specific topics, share research, or provide training. Can be academic, business-related, or professional.

• She presented her latest research findings at the international science conference.
• The marketing team will attend a three-day sales conference in New York.

An event or gathering where people with a common interest, often from a specific industry, meet to network, discuss ideas, and showcase new products or services.

• The comic book fans are excited about the upcoming Comic-Con convention.
• Real estate professionals from around the world will be attending the annual real estate convention.

A more casual and informal meeting or assembly of people, often for social purposes or smaller-scale events.

• Our family is planning a big gathering for Thanksgiving this year.
• There was a small gathering of friends at her house last night.

Used primarily in the United States to refer to the national legislative body, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. It can also describe a large formal meeting or series of meetings where political issues are discussed.

• The bill is currently being debated in Congress
• The medical congress will be held next month to discuss new research findings

A general term for an elected body of people that makes, changes, and repeals laws. It can be used to describe the legislative branches of state governments within countries like the United States.

• The state legislature passed a new law regarding environmental protection
• The country's legislature convened to address the economic crisis

Used primarily in countries with a parliamentary system of government, such as the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. Refers to the supreme legislative body where various members debate and make laws.

• The Prime Minister addressed Parliament about the new health care reform
• The bill was introduced in Parliament for discussion and approval

Often used to refer to a group of people gathered together for a common purpose, especially legislative bodies, but can also apply to any formal meeting or gathering.

• The General Assembly of the United Nations meets in New York
• The school held an assembly to discuss the new policies