Understanding Parallel Structure
Definition and Importance
Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, refers to the use of similar grammatical patterns to express related ideas within a sentence. When parts of a sentence are parallel, they are grammatically consistent, making the sentence clearer and more elegant. For example:
- Correct: She likes hiking, swimming, and biking.
- Incorrect: She likes hiking, swimming, and to bike.
The first sentence is parallel because all items are in the same form (gerunds), while the second is not.
Parallelism is important because it:
- Enhances readability and flow
- Emphasizes the relationship between ideas
- Creates rhythm and balance
- Improves clarity by avoiding confusion
Common Uses of Parallel Structure
Parallel structure is often employed in:
- Lists and series
- Comparisons
- Correlative conjunctions
- Compound sentences
- Infinitive phrases
- Repeated grammatical patterns for emphasis
Common Errors in Parallel Structure
Understanding typical mistakes helps in identifying and correcting errors. Some frequent issues include:
1. Inconsistent grammatical forms
Mixing different forms within a list or series can disrupt parallelism.
Example:
- Incorrect: The manager asked to review the report, to analyze the data, and to prepare the presentation.
- Correct: The manager asked to review the report, analyze the data, and prepare the presentation.
Note that all items are infinitives ("to" + verb).
2. Using different parts of speech improperly
Switching between nouns, verbs, adjectives, or phrases without consistency.
Example:
- Incorrect: She is talented, enthusiastic, and has a positive attitude.
- Correct: She is talented, enthusiastic, and positive.
All adjectives are in the same form.
3. Mismatched grammatical structures in comparisons
When making comparisons, the structures should mirror each other.
Example:
- Incorrect: He is smarter than his brother.
- Correct: He is smarter than his brother is.
Or better yet, make both parts parallel:
- Correct: He is smarter than his brother.
But if comparing qualities:
- Correct: He is smarter than his brother is intelligent.
4. Faulty coordination with conjunctions
Using coordinating conjunctions (and, or, but) with unequal grammatical elements.
Example:
- Incorrect: She likes to read novels, and going to the movies.
- Correct: She likes to read novels and go to the movies.
Strategies for Correcting Parallel Structure Errors
Correcting parallelism involves careful sentence analysis and restructuring. Here are steps and tips to improve parallel structure:
1. Identify the parts that should be parallel
Look for lists, comparisons, or connected ideas. Mark the segments that need to mirror each other.
2. Check the grammatical form of each element
Ensure that items in a list or series are in the same grammatical form — all nouns, all gerunds, all infinitives, etc.
3. Maintain consistency throughout the sentence
If the first element is a noun, ensure all are nouns; if a phrase, then all phrases.
4. Use coordinating conjunctions appropriately
Make sure that connected elements are similar in structure when joined by "and," "or," or "but."
5. Rephrase or restructure sentences as needed
If the sentence is awkward, restructure it to maintain clarity and parallelism.
6. Read sentences aloud
Listening can help identify rhythm issues or uneven patterns.
Practical Examples of Parallel Structure Correction
Understanding how to correct sentences is best reinforced through examples. Here are some common sentence errors and their corrected versions.
Example 1: List correction
- Incorrect: The workshop will cover topics such as time management, effective communication, and how to lead a team.
- Correct: The workshop will cover topics such as time management, effective communication, and team leadership.
All items are nouns or noun phrases.
Example 2: Comparison correction
- Incorrect: He is talented, hardworking, and has a positive attitude.
- Correct: He is talented, hardworking, and positive.
Example 3: Infinitive phrase correction
- Incorrect: To succeed in the business, you need to be persistent, dedicated, and to take risks.
- Correct: To succeed in the business, you need to be persistent, dedicated, and willing to take risks.
Example 4: Using correlative conjunctions
- Incorrect: She is not only intelligent but also she is diligent.
- Correct: She is not only intelligent but also diligent.
Advanced Tips for Mastering Parallel Structure
Achieving mastery in parallelism takes practice. Here are advanced tips:
1. Be consistent with verb tense and voice
When listing actions or ideas, maintain the same tense and voice to ensure parallelism.
Example:
- Correct: She enjoys reading, writing, and painting.
- Incorrect: She enjoys reading, to write, and painting.
2. Use parallel structure in complex sentences
Even in complex sentences with multiple clauses, ensure each clause follows a similar pattern.
Example:
- Correct: The coach told the players that they should arrive early, warm up properly, and focus during practice.
- Note: Each clause ("that they should arrive early," "warm up properly," "focus during practice") is parallel.
3. Practice rewriting sentences
Take sentences with errors and rewrite them, focusing on maintaining parallelism.
4. Utilize parallel structure in outlines and headings
Applying parallelism in headings and outlines improves overall coherence and organization.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Despite understanding parallelism, writers often make mistakes that undermine clarity. Be aware of these pitfalls:
- Mixing different grammatical forms within a list.
- Overusing parallel structure, leading to monotonous sentences.
- Ignoring irregular or compound elements that require special attention.
- Failing to revise sentences after initial writing.
Conclusion
Parallel structure sentence correction is a vital skill for anyone aiming to write clear, compelling, and grammatically sound sentences. By understanding the principles of parallelism, recognizing common errors, and applying strategic corrections, writers can enhance the flow and impact of their writing. Whether constructing lists, making comparisons, or linking ideas within complex sentences, maintaining grammatical consistency ensures that your message is communicated effectively. Practice, careful editing, and attention to detail will help you master parallel structure, ultimately elevating your writing to a higher standard of professionalism and clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is parallel structure in sentences?
Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is the use of similar grammatical forms or structures within a sentence to create symmetry and clarity.
Why is maintaining parallel structure important in writing?
Maintaining parallel structure improves readability, clarity, and flow of sentences, making your writing more professional and easier to understand.
How can I identify errors in parallel structure?
Look for lists or connected ideas within a sentence that do not follow the same grammatical pattern, such as mixing verb forms or noun phrases.
What are common mistakes to avoid in parallel sentence construction?
Common mistakes include mixing verb forms, inconsistent use of adjectives and nouns, and inconsistent grammatical patterns in lists or comparisons.
Can you give an example of a sentence with faulty parallelism?
Sure. For example: 'She likes reading, to swim, and jogging.' Corrected: 'She likes reading, swimming, and jogging.'
How do I correct a sentence with parallel structure errors?
Identify the parts that are not parallel and revise them to match in grammatical form, such as changing all items in a list to the same part of speech.
Are there specific rules for creating parallel sentences?
Yes. Use the same grammatical pattern for all items in a list, ensure consistent verb forms, and maintain the same structure when comparing ideas.
Does parallel structure only apply to lists?
No, parallel structure applies to lists, comparisons, and any sentence elements that are balanced or connected, such as paired ideas or contrasting clauses.
What are some helpful tips for practicing parallel sentence correction?
Practice rewriting sentences to ensure all elements are in the same grammatical form, read sentences aloud for flow, and review grammatical patterns regularly.
