What is parallel structure?
Parallel structure is a stylistic device used in writing and speaking to give equal importance to elements of a sentence. It involves using the same grammatical structure for items in a series, items in a list, or parts of a sentence to create a balanced and cohesive sentence. This helps to improve clarity, rhythm, and emphasis in writing.
Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a grammatical and rhetorical technique where similar ideas or elements are expressed in a balanced and consistent manner within a sentence or a series of sentences. It involves using the same grammatical structure or pattern for multiple parts of a sentence.
Parallel structure can be applied to various aspects of language, such as words, phrases, clauses, or even entire sentences. By using parallel structure, the writer or speaker emphasizes the relationship between the ideas being presented and creates a sense of balance, harmony, and clarity in the sentence.
In parallel structure, the parallel elements should share a similar grammatical form, which means they should have the same verb tense, voice, mood, number, or part of speech. This can be achieved by using coordinating conjunctions like "and," "but," or "or" to connect the parallel elements, or by repeating certain words or phrases.
Here is an example of parallel structure:
Not Parallel Structure:
- I like reading books, running, and to cook.
Parallel Structure:
- I like reading books, running, and cooking.
In this example, the parallel structure is achieved by using the "-ing" form for all three activities, making the sentence more balanced and effectively conveying the parallel ideas.