both houses of parliament; upper and lower houses
Refers to the two chambers of a bicameral legislature, typically the upper house (上院) and lower house (下院). Used in political contexts.
The bill was passed by both houses of parliament.
Refers specifically to the upper house only, while 上下両院 means both houses together.
Refers specifically to the lower house only, while 上下両院 means both houses together.
Compound of 上下 (upper and lower) + 両院 (both houses).