Why Do Writers Use Parallel Structure?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Parallel structure adds both clout and clarity to your writing. When you use parallel structure,

you increase the readability of your writing by creating word patterns readers can follow easily

. Parallel structure (also called parallelism) is the repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence.

What is the purpose of parallel structure?

Parallel structure means

using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance

. This can happen at the word, phrase, or clause level. The usual way to join parallel structures is with the use of coordinating conjunctions such as “and” or “or.”

What are the benefits of using parallel structure in writing?

Why is it important to use parallel structure? Lack of parallel structure can disrupt the rhythm of a sentence, leaving it grammatically unbalanced. Proper parallel structure

helps to establish balance and flow in a well-constructed sentence

; the alignment of related ideas supports readability and clarity.

Why do authors use parallel structures quizlet?

Parallel structure means using the same pattern of words for two or more words or ideas in a sentence. Using parallel structure shows that

the words/ideas have the same level of importance and makes the sentence easier to understand

.

What is parallelism used for in writing?

Parallelism is particularly popular among orators because it usually

simplifies the structure of sentences

, so the speaker can hold an audience’s attention for longer and present their message in digestible terms. Parallelism also useful when a writer wants to emphasize the relationship between two or more ideas.

What is parallelism give 5 examples?

In English grammar, parallelism (also called parallel structure or parallel construction) is the

repetition of the same grammatical form

in two or more parts of a sentence. Not parallel. Parallel. I like to jog, bake, paint, and watching movies. I like to jog, bake, paint, and watch movies.

Is parallel structure good or bad?

Overall, parallel structure

guarantees uniformity and consistency throughout a piece of writing

, to ensure its clarity and accuracy. And by making each compared item or idea in a phrase or clause follow the same grammatical pattern, you create a parallel construction.

How does parallelism improve writing?

Parallelism is important in writing

because it allows a writer to achieve a sense of rhythm and order

. When sentence structures are not parallel, writing sounds awkward and choppy. Parallel clauses are usually combined with the use of a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so).

How does parallelism affect the reader?

Parallelism is considered a great persuasive tool. Its repetitive quality makes the sentence or sentences symmetrical and therefore very memorable for the reader. Parallelism makes the

idea easier for readers to process

because they sense a pattern and know what to expect.

How can you apply parallelism in a real life situation?

Parallel line examples in real life are

railroad tracks

, the edges of sidewalks, marking on the streets, zebra crossing on the roads, the surface of pineapple and strawberry fruit, staircase and railings, etc.

Which sentence has parallel structure?


When you connect two or more clauses or phrases with a coordinating conjunction

(for, and, nor, but, or, yet, or so), use parallel structure. Example Not Parallel: My best friend took me dancing and to a show.

Which sentence has an error in parallel structure?

Explanation: Sentence

A

contains an error in parallel structure because the first two items in the predicate are adjectives (supportive, kind) while the third one is a verb modified by an infinitive phrase (tries to help people). B, C and D contain no errors in parallel structure.

Is a list parallel structure?

Parallel structure means

that coordinate parts of a sentence

, such as items in a series or list, have the same grammatical form. Items in a series must be all nouns, all verbs, or all participles, and so on.

What is parallelism in writing example?

Here’s a quick and simple definition: Parallelism is a figure of speech in which two or more elements of a sentence (or series of sentences) have the same grammatical structure. … The following well-known adage is an example of parallelism: “

Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day.

What are the rules of parallelism?

  • Use parallel structure with elements joined by coordinating conjunctions.
  • Use parallel structure with elements in lists or in a series.
  • Use parallel structure with elements being compared. ( …
  • Use parallel structure with elements joined by a linking verb or a verb of being.

How do you determine parallelism in writing?

A simple way to check for parallelism in your writing is to

make sure you have paired nouns with nouns, verbs with verbs, prepositional phrases with prepositional phrases

, and so on. Underline each element in a sentence and check that the corresponding element uses the same grammatical form.

Charlene Dyck
Author
Charlene Dyck
Charlene is a software developer and technology expert with a degree in computer science. She has worked for major tech companies and has a keen understanding of how computers and electronics work. Sarah is also an advocate for digital privacy and security.