Parallel structure

Definition

Parallel structure is a grammatical construction in which similar elements of a sentence are expressed in the same grammatical form, enhancing clarity and rhythm. This technique is crucial for creating balance in writing, especially in compare and contrast scenarios where ideas or items are juxtaposed, helping readers to easily identify similarities and differences.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Using parallel structure makes sentences easier to read and understand by providing a rhythm that guides the reader through the information.
2. In compare and contrast writing, parallel structure helps highlight the similarities and differences between subjects, making arguments more persuasive.
3. When listing items or ideas, maintaining parallel structure ensures that each element is presented in a consistent grammatical form.
4. Parallel structure can enhance the aesthetic quality of writing, making it more engaging for readers through repetition and rhythm.
5. Writers should be cautious of mixing different forms within parallel structures, as this can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of ideas.

Review Questions

• How does parallel structure enhance the clarity of compare and contrast essays?
  • Parallel structure enhances clarity by providing a consistent framework for presenting similar ideas or items. In compare and contrast essays, using this technique allows writers to clearly delineate the similarities and differences between subjects. This makes it easier for readers to follow along and grasp the relationships being discussed, ultimately leading to a more compelling argument.
• Discuss how mixing different grammatical forms can affect the effectiveness of a comparison in writing.
  • Mixing different grammatical forms within a comparison can significantly reduce the effectiveness of the argument being made. It creates confusion for readers as they try to navigate through inconsistently structured elements. A well-executed parallel structure maintains uniformity, which reinforces the comparison being drawn and strengthens the overall coherence of the writing.
• Evaluate the impact of parallel structure on the overall persuasiveness of an argument presented in a compare and contrast essay.
  • The use of parallel structure greatly enhances the persuasiveness of an argument in a compare and contrast essay by reinforcing key points through repetition and rhythm. This technique not only clarifies relationships between ideas but also emphasizes their importance by presenting them consistently. By appealing to readers' sense of order and symmetry, writers can create a more convincing case that resonates with audiences, making their arguments more impactful.

Related terms

Antithesis: A rhetorical device that contrasts two opposing ideas in a parallel manner, emphasizing the differences between them.

Balanced Sentence: A sentence that employs parallel structure to create balance, often using similar phrases or clauses to present contrasting or comparable ideas.

List: A series of items or ideas presented in a sequence, often employing parallel structure to maintain consistency and clarity.