What is Parallel Structure?
In writing, "parallel structure" refers to using two or more words, phrases, or clauses that have similar parts of speech or patterns.
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Take a look at the following examples:
|
NOT Parallel |
Parallel |
|---|---|
|
Of all the sports I've played, I prefer tennis, handball, and playing golf. |
Of all the sports I've played, I prefer tennis, handball, and golf. (Three nouns are parallel.) |
|
Yesterday, I was tired, hungry, and I felt sick. |
Yesterday, I was tired, hungry, and sick. (Three adjectives are parallel.) |
|
If you're looking for the car keys, you should look under the table, the kitchen counter, and behind the refrigerator. |
If you're looking for the car keys, you should look under the table, on the kitchen counter, and behind the refrigerator. (Three prepositional phrases are parallel.) |
|
He is a good choice for manager because he works hard, he keeps calm, and is well-liked. |
He is a good choice for manager because he works hard, he keeps calm, and he is well-liked. (Three clauses are parallel because they all have a subject, verb, adverb.) |
