When it comes to writing, one of the most important elements to consider is parallel structure. This writing technique involves using the same pattern of words to convey equal importance and create a sense of balance in your sentences. By employing parallel structure, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing.
Parallel structure can be applied at various levels, including words, phrases, and clauses. It involves using coordinating conjunctions like “and” or “or” to connect similar ideas and maintain consistency throughout your writing. Let’s delve deeper into this concept and explore how it can elevate your writing skills.
At the word level, parallel structure ensures that words with the same grammatical function are presented in a consistent manner. For example, consider the sentence: “Processed foods are bad for you, are high in fat, and are the cause of serious health issues.” Here, the repetition of the verb “are” creates parallelism by emphasizing the negative effects of processed foods.
Moving on to the phrase level, parallel structure involves using similar phrases or expressions to convey related ideas. For instance, “Railway track lines, window lines, and wicket sticks in a cricket match” demonstrate parallelism by presenting a list of different items in a balanced manner.
Lastly, parallel structure can be applied at the clause level, where it involves maintaining a consistent structure within a sentence or across multiple sentences. By using coordinating conjunctions, you can connect clauses that express equal importance. For example, “Jonah has two ultimate goals: becoming a published columnist and writing a book” showcases parallel structure by presenting two goals in a balanced and cohesive manner.
Now that we have explored the concept of parallel structure, let’s identify the sentence that contains this writing technique. The correct answer is: “Jonah has two ultimate goals: becoming a published columnist and writing a book.” This sentence uses parallel structure by employing the same pattern of words (“becoming” and “writing”) to express equal importance.
Parallel structure is a crucial aspect of effective writing. It helps maintain consistency, clarity, and balance, enabling readers to comprehend your message more easily. By incorporating parallel structure into your writing, you can elevate your skills and create a more impactful and engaging piece of work.
What Are The Parallel Structure Words?
Parallel structure words are used to create balance and coherence in writing. They help to emphasize the relationship between different ideas or elements in a sentence or paragraph. Here are some examples of parallel structure words:
1. Coordinating conjunctions: These words connect similar elements within a sentence. The most common coordinating conjunctions are “and,” “or,” “but,” “nor,” “for,” “so,” and “yet.” For example:
– I like to read books, watch movies, and listen to music.
– You can either study for the exam or go to the party.
2. Correlative conjunctions: These are pairs of words that work together to join parallel elements. Some examples include “either…or,” “neither…nor,” “both…and,” “not only…but also.” For example:
– She is not only intelligent but also hardworking.
– You can either stay at home or go out with friends.
3. Comparative words or phrases: These words or phrases are used to compare two or more elements in terms of their degree or quality. Examples include “more,” “less,” “as…as,” “than,” “rather than.” For example:
– He is as tall as his brother.
– I prefer tea rather than coffee.
4. Lists or series: When presenting a list of items or ideas, it is important to maintain parallel structure to ensure clarity and coherence. This can be achieved by using consistent verb forms, noun forms, or sentence structures. For example:
– The project requires planning, coordination, and execution.
– She enjoys swimming, hiking, and playing tennis.
By using parallel structure words, you can create a balanced and organized piece of writing that effectively communicates your ideas.
Conclusion
Parallel structure is an essential writing technique that adds clarity and coherence to your sentences. By using the same pattern of words, whether it be at the word, phrase, or clause level, you can effectively convey ideas that have equal importance. This technique allows your writing to flow smoothly and helps readers understand your message more easily.
One of the most common ways to achieve parallel structure is through the use of coordinating conjunctions such as “and” or “or.” These conjunctions help join similar ideas together, creating a balanced and cohesive sentence. For example, “Processed foods are bad for you, are high in fat, and are the cause of serious health issues.” In this sentence, the parallel structure is evident as all three ideas are presented in the same format.
Another way to create parallel structure is by using parallel constructions, which involve using similar grammatical structures for similar ideas. This can be achieved through the repetition of certain words or the use of synonyms. For instance, “Railway track lines, window lines, and wicket sticks in a cricket match” exemplify parallel structure as each item is presented in the same format.
By employing parallel structure in your writing, you enhance the overall quality and effectiveness of your message. It allows readers to follow your thoughts more easily, making your writing more engaging and persuasive. So, remember to utilize parallel structure in your sentences to create a harmonious and well-structured piece of writing.
