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Using Parallelism

Parallelism refers to using similar grammatical structures to express similar ideas in a sentence or across sentences for the purpose of clarity and consistency. Examples are provided of parallel versus non-parallel constructions using coordinating conjunctions like "and" and correlative conjunctions like "both...and." Tips note to ensure words or phrases joined by such conjunctions are parallel, as are items in a list or series. Maintaining parallel structure avoids awkward phrasing and keeps promises made to the reader for clear communication.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
220 views8 pages

Using Parallelism

Parallelism refers to using similar grammatical structures to express similar ideas in a sentence or across sentences for the purpose of clarity and consistency. Examples are provided of parallel versus non-parallel constructions using coordinating conjunctions like "and" and correlative conjunctions like "both...and." Tips note to ensure words or phrases joined by such conjunctions are parallel, as are items in a list or series. Maintaining parallel structure avoids awkward phrasing and keeps promises made to the reader for clear communication.
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Parallelism

What is parallelism?
o Parallelism means using similar structures to
express similar ideas.
o Parallel structures make sentences clearer and
easier to read.
o Editing for parallel structure helps you avoid
awkward sentences and keeps you from
breaking your promise to the reader.

Example:
I like to write, read, and studying.

Promise to
reader

Promise
broken

I like to write, to read and to study grammar.


Promis
e kept
I like writing, reading, and studying grammar.

Now you try. Which sentence is parallel?

o This semester Im studying art, music, and


taking a math course.
o This semester Im studying art, music, and
math.

Tip #1: Be sure that words and phrases joined by


coordinating conjunctions (for, and, nor, but, or,
yet, so) are parallel.

o You can pay me now, or its okay if


you pay me later.

lel
l
a
ar
p
t
No

o You can pay me now or pay me later.

OK

o You can pay me now, or you can pay me later.

Tip #2: Watch words and phrases joined by


correlative conjunctions like bothand, eitheror,
and ratherthan.

o Both biology and medicine are good


professions.
o I would rather stay up late to finish this paper
than get up early in the morning.

Tip #3: Watch words and phrases in series or lists.

o In the workshop, I learned some good study


tips:
Not parallel
o How to take good notes
o Reading actively
o That its important to get enough sleep

o In the workshop, I learned some good study


tips:
o Take notes
OK
o Read actively
o Get enough sleep

To review parallel structure,


see Chapter 13.

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