Parallel structure

Definition

Parallel structure refers to the use of similar grammatical forms or patterns in writing to create rhythm, clarity, and balance within sentences or clauses. This technique enhances readability and understanding by ensuring that ideas of equal importance are presented in a consistent manner, making complex sentences more digestible.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Parallel structure is commonly used in lists, where items are formatted similarly to create a sense of unity, such as 'I like swimming, biking, and running.'
2. When creating parallel structures, it's essential to ensure that verbs, nouns, or adjectives match in form, enhancing clarity and rhythm.
3. In speeches and persuasive writing, parallel structure can be a powerful rhetorical device that emphasizes key points and helps with memorability.
4. Identifying and correcting faulty parallelism—where structures do not match—can significantly improve the overall quality of writing.
5. Parallel structure is not just limited to lists; it can also occur within clauses and phrases, making entire sentences more effective.

Review Questions

• How does parallel structure enhance the readability of complex sentences?
  • Parallel structure enhances readability by organizing ideas in a consistent format, allowing readers to easily identify relationships between thoughts. By presenting similar elements with the same grammatical pattern, such as 'She enjoys reading, writing, and hiking,' readers can quickly grasp the information being conveyed. This clarity is particularly important in complex sentences where multiple ideas are presented.
• Discuss the potential pitfalls of faulty parallelism in writing and how it can affect reader comprehension.
  • Faulty parallelism occurs when similar ideas are not presented using matching grammatical forms, which can confuse readers and disrupt the flow of writing. For example, saying 'He likes running, swimming, and to bike' creates inconsistency because 'to bike' does not match the gerund forms of the other activities. Such errors can detract from the message's clarity and undermine the writer's credibility by making their work appear careless.
• Evaluate the role of parallel structure in persuasive writing, particularly in how it contributes to an argument's effectiveness.
  • In persuasive writing, parallel structure serves as a compelling tool to strengthen an argument by providing rhythm and emphasis to key points. When used effectively, it creates memorable phrases that resonate with the audience, reinforcing the writer's message. For instance, Martin Luther King Jr.'s use of parallelism in 'I have a dream' is memorable and impactful because it reinforces his vision while engaging listeners emotionally. This technique not only makes arguments more persuasive but also enhances their overall emotional appeal.

Related terms

coherence: The logical connections and flow between ideas in writing that make it easy for readers to follow and understand.

subordination: The grammatical process of connecting a dependent clause to an independent clause, which can affect the complexity and structure of sentences.

conjunction: Words that connect clauses or phrases within a sentence, often playing a key role in maintaining parallel structure.