bill
bil
/bɪl/
A proposed law presented to a legislative body for consideration.
A bill is the initial, unapproved form of a law. It must pass through various legislative stages before it can become an 'act' or 'statute'.
The story behind the word. Our word 'bill' comes from the Old French 'bille', meaning 'a written document, a list, or a letter'. Over time, it narrowed its focus. By the 15th century, it specifically referred to a proposed law, a document that detailed what was to be done. So, when you hear about a 'bill' in Congress, you're hearing about a piece of paper (or digital document!) that's trying to become something more.
Word relationships
- proposal: More general; a bill is a specific type of legislative proposal.
- measure: Often used interchangeably with 'bill' in a legislative context, but 'measure' can also refer to non-binding resolutions.
- act: An 'act' is a bill that has successfully become law.
- statute: A 'statute' is a formal written law, distinct from a proposed 'bill'.
Commonly confused with
- act: A 'bill' is proposed; an 'act' is enacted.
Word family
- bill (verb): to advertise or announce something
Collocations
- introduce a bill
- pass a bill
- sign a bill
- draft a bill
Example sentences
- "The new education reform bill faced fierce debate in the Senate before it could even be put to a vote." Legislative Process
- "President Obama signed the health care reform bill into law, marking a historic moment for American healthcare." Political Reporting
Memory hook
Think of a 'BILL' as a 'B'eginning 'I'n 'L'egislation 'L'anding. It's just the start! Beginning Legislation
When not to use
Do not use 'bill' to refer to a law that has already been passed and enacted. At that point, it becomes an 'act' or 'statute'.
Fun facts
- The word 'bill' also gives us 'billboard' (originally a board for posting bills or notices) and 'bulletin' (a small bill or notice).
- In British English, a bill that has passed all stages and received Royal Assent is called an 'Act of Parliament'.
Related words
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