What Is Parallelism and Why Does It Matter?
Parallelism, also known as parallel structure, is a grammatical principle that involves using the same pattern of words to show that two or more ideas have the same level of importance. This is often achieved by using the same parts of speech or grammatical forms for words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence.
Think of it like building with perfectly aligned bricks. When elements in a sentence are balanced and consistent, the sentence flows smoothly, becomes easier to understand, and carries more weight. In academic and professional writing, where clarity and precision are paramount, mastering parallelism is a crucial skill.
The Power of Parallelism in Communication
- Clarity: Parallelism makes complex ideas digestible. By presenting information in a consistent structure, readers can more easily follow your train of thought.
- Emphasis: When you use parallelism, you draw attention to the elements you are listing or comparing. This helps to highlight key points.
- Rhythm and Flow: Parallel sentences have a pleasing rhythm. This makes your writing more engaging and enjoyable to read.
- Memorability: Parallel structures often create a memorable cadence, making your message stick with the reader.
- Professionalism: Correct use of parallelism signals a strong command of grammar and a polished writing style.
Identifying Parallelism: Common Structures
Parallelism can be applied to various grammatical units: words, phrases, and clauses.
Parallel Words
When you have a series of individual words that are all the same part of speech, they should be parallel.
Non-Parallel: She likes to swim, jog, and to bike. Parallel: She likes to swim, jog, and bike.
Here, "swim," "jog," and "bike" are all verbs in their base form, creating a parallel structure.
Parallel Phrases
Phrases that function similarly within a sentence should also share a parallel structure. This is common with prepositional phrases, infinitive phrases, and gerund phrases.
Non-Parallel (Prepositional Phrases): He walked into the room, over the desk, and through the window. (This is already parallel, illustrating the concept).
Let's try another: Non-Parallel: The report was on the table, in my bag, and under the chair. Parallel: The report was on the table, in my bag, and under the chair. (Again, already parallel).
Consider this: Non-Parallel: We need to finish the project, submit the proposal, and get approval. Parallel: We need to finish the project, submit the proposal, and obtain approval. (Here, "finish," "submit," and "obtain" are all base form verbs, creating parallelism).
Non-Parallel (Gerund Phrases): Reading books, watching documentaries, and to listen to podcasts are her favorite pastimes. Parallel: Reading books, watching documentaries, and listening to podcasts are her favorite pastimes.
Parallel Clauses
When you have two or more independent or dependent clauses that are equal in importance, they should be structured in parallel. This is particularly common in compound sentences or when using correlative conjunctions.
Non-Parallel (Independent Clauses): The storm raged outside, and the power went out. Parallel: The storm raged outside, and the power went out. (Both clauses have a subject followed by a verb).
Non-Parallel (Dependent Clauses): She asked if he was coming, when he would arrive, and why he was late. Parallel: She asked if he was coming, when he would arrive, and why he was late. (All introduce subordinate clauses that function as direct objects of "asked").
Common Places Where Parallelism is Essential
Lists and Series
This is perhaps the most common application of parallelism. When you present a series of items, ensure they follow the same grammatical pattern.
Non-Parallel: The company values honesty, efficiency, and to be creative. Parallel: The company values honesty, efficiency, and creativity. (All nouns).
Non-Parallel: Her responsibilities include answering phones, scheduling appointments, and filing documents. (All gerund phrases).
Comparisons
When you compare two or more things, use parallel structures to ensure the comparison is clear and fair.
Non-Parallel: Running a marathon requires more endurance than to train for a 5k. Parallel: Running a marathon requires more endurance than training for a 5k. (Both gerund phrases).
Contrasts
Similar to comparisons, parallel structure enhances clarity when highlighting differences.
Non-Parallel: He wanted to go to the party, but he had to study. Parallel: He wanted to go to the party, but he had to study. (Both infinitive phrases as objects of "wanted" and "had to").
Correlative Conjunctions
These are pairs of conjunctions that join words, phrases, or clauses. They often require parallelism to maintain grammatical balance. Common pairs include:
- either...or
- neither...nor
- both...and
- not only...but also
- whether...or
Non-Parallel: He is not only intelligent but also hardworking. Parallel: He is not only intelligent but also hardworking. (Both adjectives).
Non-Parallel: You can either call me or send an email. Parallel: You can either call me or send an email. (Both base form verbs).
Non-Parallel: The decision was neither easy nor was it quick. Parallel: The decision was neither easy nor quick. (Both adjectives).
Tips for Achieving Parallelism
- Read Aloud: Your ear is a powerful tool. Read your sentences aloud to catch awkward phrasing or a lack of flow, which often indicates a parallelism issue.
- Identify the Core Elements: Before writing, or during revision, pinpoint the key ideas or items you are presenting. What grammatical form do they naturally take?
- Use Consistent Verb Tenses and Forms: If you're listing actions, use the same tense and form (e.g., all infinitives, all gerunds, all past tense verbs).
- Check for Subject-Verb Agreement: While not directly parallelism, ensuring subjects and verbs agree is fundamental to sentence structure and works hand-in-hand with parallelism.
- Be Mindful of Conjunctions: Pay close attention to how conjunctions (and, but, or) and correlative conjunctions connect ideas. Ensure the elements they join are grammatically similar.
- Revise and Refine: Don't expect perfection on the first draft. Revision is where you can actively look for opportunities to strengthen parallelism. If a sentence feels clunky, ask yourself if the elements are balanced.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Mixing Verb Forms: As seen in the examples, mixing infinitives with gerunds, or base verbs with past tense verbs, is a common error.
- Inconsistent Prepositional Phrases: While sometimes acceptable, if you are listing similar prepositional phrases, try to make them parallel.
- Unbalanced Clauses: Ensure independent and dependent clauses that are meant to be equal in weight have similar grammatical structures.
- The "But" Trap: When using "but" to introduce a contrast, make sure the elements before and after "but" are parallel if they are meant to be directly contrasted.
When to Break the Rules (Carefully)
While parallelism is a powerful tool, there are rare instances where intentional deviation can create a specific effect, like surprise or a sense of disarray. However, for most academic and professional writing, adhering to parallelism will serve your communication goals best. It's a foundational element of clear, effective prose.
If you're struggling to identify or implement parallel structures, seeking professional feedback can be invaluable. At EssayMatrix, our experts can help you refine your writing for maximum impact and clarity, ensuring your sentences are as strong and balanced as possible.