Translation guide
The US Congress is the legislative branch of the United States federal government. In Japanese, it is most commonly referred to by the borrowed term 米国議会 or simply 議会 when context is clear. This guide covers how to refer to the institution, its chambers, and related expressions.
Referring to the legislative branch of the US government as a whole.
Standard term for the US Congress. 米国 means 'United States' and 議会 means 'congress' or 'parliament'.
The US Congress is bicameral.
Also common, using アメリカ (America) instead of 米国. Slightly more casual.
Formal term using 合衆国 (United States). Less common in everyday speech.
Simply 'Congress' when context makes it clear you're talking about the US. Can also refer to other countries' congresses or parliaments.
Referring specifically to the US Senate.
Standard term for the upper house, used for the US Senate.
Referring specifically to the US House of Representatives.
Standard term for the lower house, used for the US House of Representatives.
Referring to a member of either house.
Generic term for a member of a congress or parliament. Can be used for US Congress members.
Referring specifically to a US Senator.
Referring specifically to a member of the House of Representatives.
In Japanese, 議会 can refer to any legislative body. When the context is clearly about the US, you can use 議会 without 米国. However, in initial mentions or formal writing, it's safer to use 米国議会.
上院 (upper house) is the Senate, and 下院 (lower house) is the House of Representatives. These terms are also used for other bicameral legislatures, so add 米国 if needed for clarity.
A new law was passed in the US Congress.
The United States Congress holds legislative power.
Congress is deliberating the budget proposal.
Senators serve six-year terms.
Explicitly 'US Senate'. Used when clarity is needed.
The US Senate has the power to ratify treaties.
House members serve two-year terms.
Explicitly 'US House of Representatives'.
The US House of Representatives initiates appropriations bills.
He ran for Congress.
Specifically 'federal congress member', distinguishing from state legislators.
Members of Congress work in Washington, D.C.
Standard term for a senator.
Two senators are elected from each state.
Standard term for a member of the House of Representatives.
Representatives are elected based on population.