Parallel structure

Definition

Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a grammatical and stylistic device that involves using the same pattern of words or phrases to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This technique enhances clarity and improves readability by creating a balanced flow in writing, which is essential for effective communication.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using parallel structure improves readability by making sentences easier to understand and remember.
2. It helps to emphasize connections between ideas, making arguments stronger and more persuasive.
3. Parallel structure can be applied at various levels, including phrases, clauses, and entire sentences.
4. Maintaining parallelism in lists is crucial; for example, using the same verb form across items enhances consistency.
5. When editing for clarity, checking for parallel structure can significantly improve the flow of the writing.

Review Questions

• How does parallel structure contribute to coherence in writing?
  • Parallel structure enhances coherence by ensuring that similar ideas are expressed in a consistent manner. This allows readers to easily follow the progression of thoughts or arguments because they recognize the pattern in the writing. When ideas are presented with parallelism, it creates a rhythm that links related concepts together, making the overall text more fluid and engaging.
• In what ways can you identify and correct instances of non-parallel structure during the editing process?
  • To identify non-parallel structure, look for lists or series where items do not follow the same grammatical pattern. For example, if some items are nouns and others are verbs, it disrupts the flow. Correcting these instances involves rephrasing so that all elements match in form, whether it be all verbs or all nouns. This ensures consistency and clarity, making the writing stronger.
• Evaluate how parallel structure can influence the overall effectiveness of an essay's argumentation.
  • Parallel structure plays a vital role in strengthening an essay's argumentation by clearly illustrating relationships between points. When an argument is presented using parallelism, it emphasizes key ideas and makes them more memorable for readers. Additionally, it helps to create a persuasive tone by underscoring similarities or contrasts among points, ultimately leading to a more compelling and impactful argument that resonates with the audience.

Related terms

Coherence:

The quality of being logical and consistent, which helps the reader to follow the writer's ideas smoothly throughout a text.

Repetition:

The use of the same word or phrase multiple times in a text to emphasize a point and create rhythm.

List: A series of items or elements presented in a specific order, often utilizing parallel structure to maintain consistency and clarity.