Parallel Structure

Definition

Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a grammatical and rhetorical device that involves using similar patterns of words, phrases, or clauses to create a sense of balance and clarity in writing. This technique not only enhances readability but also emphasizes ideas and improves the overall flow of the text, making it more engaging for readers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using parallel structure helps create rhythm in writing, making it more engaging and memorable for readers.
2. It can be applied in various contexts, including lists, comparisons, and contrasting ideas, enhancing the organization of thoughts.
3. Parallel structure can also strengthen persuasive arguments by emphasizing key points through repetition and balance.
4. Common examples include phrases like 'I came, I saw, I conquered,' where similar verb forms enhance the impact of the statement.
5. Maintaining parallelism throughout a piece contributes to coherence, allowing readers to follow the writer's ideas with ease.

Review Questions

• How does parallel structure contribute to enhancing reader engagement in writing?
  • Parallel structure enhances reader engagement by creating a rhythmic flow that draws readers in. When sentences or phrases are constructed with similar patterns, it makes the text more enjoyable to read and easier to remember. This technique also helps highlight important ideas, making them stand out and keeping readers focused on the main points.
• In what ways can parallel structure be used to improve persuasive writing?
  • In persuasive writing, parallel structure can effectively emphasize key arguments by presenting them in a balanced format. By using similar grammatical forms or patterns for each point, writers can make their arguments clearer and more impactful. This technique helps reinforce the message and can persuade readers to agree with the writer's perspective through its emphasis and clarity.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of parallel structure in creating coherence within a written piece. Provide examples to support your analysis.
  • Parallel structure is highly effective in creating coherence within a written piece as it establishes clear connections between related ideas. For instance, when a writer lists benefits like 'improving skills, increasing confidence, and fostering creativity,' the consistent structure allows readers to easily grasp the relationships among these benefits. This coherence not only aids comprehension but also strengthens the overall argument by linking thoughts together seamlessly. By maintaining parallelism throughout their writing, authors can guide readers through their ideas more logically.

Related terms

Coherence: The logical connections and consistency in writing that help readers understand the relationships between ideas.

Clarity:

The quality of being clear and easy to understand, which is often enhanced by using parallel structure.

Rhythm: The pattern of sounds and beats in writing that can be influenced by the use of parallelism, making the text more enjoyable to read.