Parallelism

Parallelism

Parallelism is the use of the same pattern of words for two or more ideas of equal importance.

Definition

  • Parallelism, or parallel construction, creates a sense of balance in writing.

  • Lack of parallel structure can lead to disorganization and misunderstanding for the reader.

Importance

  • Enhances clarity and flow of ideas in sentences.

  • Aids reader comprehension by clearly showing relationships among ideas.

Revising for Parallel Structure

Helpful Hints

  • Identify the parts of the sentence being compared.

  • Determine if they are constructed similarly; if not, revise for parallelism.

When to Use Parallel Structure

  • Lists: Items in a list should be in the same form.

  • Coordinating Conjunctions: For words/phrases joined by conjunctions like "and," "but," "or."

  • Correlative Conjunctions: For pairs like "both/and," "not only/but also."

  • Comparison Words: Typically introduced by "than" or "as."

Correcting Non-Parallel Sentences

Methods for Correction

  • Change faulty verbs for consistency.

  • Rearrange the sentence if necessary.

  • Use semi-colons to connect complete ideas.

  • Add extra information in parentheses for clarity.

Examples

  • Non-Parallel: "The position required experience, friendly, and get up early."

  • Parallel (all nouns): "The position required experience, friendliness, and a willingness to get up early."

  • Parallel (all adjectives): "They wanted someone who was experienced, friendly, and willing to get up early."

Maintaining Consistency in Form

Structurally Equivalent Verbs

  • Example: "Good health requires eating right and exercise regularly."

  • Corrected: "Good health requires eating right and exercising regularly."

Using Clauses or Complete Sentences

  • Non-Parallel: "Three reasons were given for the concert’s cancellation: the lead singer was sick, low ticket sales, and because the drummer had left the band."

  • Corrected: "Three reasons were given for the concert’s cancellation: the lead singer was sick, ticket sales were low, and the drummer had left the band."

Writing Style Considerations

  • Using parallelism can strengthen the relationship among sentences and improve overall writing quality.

Focus on Details

  • Writing requires deep thinking, careful attention to word choice, and punctuation.

Additional Examples of Parallelism

  • Non-Parallel: "Ellen likes hiking, the rodeo, and to take afternoon naps."

  • Parallel: "Ellen likes hiking, attending the rodeo, and taking afternoon naps."

  • Non-Parallel: "My best friend took me dancing and to a show."

  • Parallel: "My best friend took me to a dance and a show."

Practice Exercises

  • Rewrite sentences to ensure parallel structure where necessary:

    1. The English teacher spoke in a nasal tone, unpleasantly, but conveying the information clearly and was funny.

    2. The coach told his players that they should get plenty of water, to not eat sugary snacks, and being sure they are getting plenty of sleep.

Sample Answers for Practice

  • Example: "The English teacher had an unpleasant, nasal tone but conveyed the information clearly and humorously."

  • Example: "The coach told his players to get plenty of water, not eat sugary snacks, and be sure they get plenty of sleep."

Summary of Concepts

  • Recognize non-parallel structures and revise them to improve clarity.

  • Ensure consistent forms within lists, conjunctions, and clauses to maintain readability.