Parallel structures

Front

What is parallel structure?

Back

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

Front

Why is parallel structure important in writing?

Back

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

Front

Identify the correct parallel structure: 'I enjoy reading, writing, and to paint.'

Back

Incorrect. The correct structure is 'I enjoy reading, writing, and painting.'

Front

Identify the correct parallel structure: 'She likes to swim, to bike, and running.'

Back

Incorrect. The correct structure is 'She likes to swim, to bike, and to run.'

Front

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

Back

'He likes hiking, biking, and swimming.'

Front

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

Back

'She enjoys to dance, singing, and to play the piano.'

Front

How can you fix a sentence with incorrect parallel structure?

Back

Ensure all elements in the list are in the same grammatical form, such as all gerunds or all infinitives.

Front

What is a gerund?

Back

A gerund is a verb form that ends in -ing and functions as a noun.

Front

What is an infinitive?

Back

An infinitive is the base form of a verb, usually preceded by 'to' (e.g., to run, to swim).

Front

Identify the correct parallel structure: 'The dog likes to bark, to run, and playing.'

Back

Incorrect. The correct structure is 'The dog likes to bark, to run, and to play.'