Using Parallel Structure

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What is parallel structure?

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Parallel structure, or parallelism, is the repetition of a chosen grammatical form within a sentence. It helps to create balance and clarity in writing.

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Why is parallel structure important in writing?

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Parallel structure enhances readability and flow, making sentences easier to understand and more persuasive.

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Identify the error: 'My grandfather's favorite pastime is to eat in trendy restaurants and visiting art galleries.'

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The sentence is NOT PARALLEL because 'to eat' and 'visiting' are not in the same grammatical form.

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Choose the correct parallel structure: 'Gary is short, smells, and annoying.'

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The correct parallel structure is 'Gary is short, smelly, and annoying.'

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Identify the error: 'Mike likes to listen to rock music and reading mystery novels.'

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The sentence is NOT PARALLEL because 'to listen' and 'reading' are not in the same grammatical form.

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Complete the sentence: 'Volcanoes have inspired both fascination and ________.'

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The correct completion is 'fear in people throughout history' to maintain parallel structure.

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Complete the sentence: 'This fear is caused partially by our lack of understanding of the causes of volcanoes and___________.'

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The correct completion is 'partially by our own inability to control them' to maintain parallel structure.

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What is an example of a sentence with correct parallel structure?

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An example is: 'She likes hiking, swimming, and biking.' All verbs are in the gerund form.

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What is an example of incorrect parallel structure?

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An example is: 'He enjoys reading, to jog, and swimming.' The forms are inconsistent.

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How can you fix a sentence that lacks parallel structure?

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You can fix it by ensuring all elements in a list or comparison are in the same grammatical form.