How To Make A Sentence Parallel | Balance Your Words

Understanding parallelism is a fundamental skill that significantly refines your writing. It’s about bringing a sense of rhythm and order to your sentences, making your ideas flow smoothly for your reader. Think of it as aligning your thoughts for maximum impact and readability.

What is Parallelism? The Core Concept

Parallelism, also known as parallel structure, means using the same grammatical form for two or more items in a sentence. This principle applies when you list items, compare ideas, or use certain conjunctions.

It creates balance and symmetry within your writing. When structures align, your sentences become easier to read and understand, preventing confusion.

Consider it like building with identical blocks. Each block represents a part of your sentence, and for a strong, stable structure, they should be of the same type.

Here are the primary areas where parallelism is essential:

• Lists or Series: When presenting multiple items, actions, or descriptions.
• Comparisons: When contrasting or equating two or more elements.
• Correlative Conjunctions: Phrases like “not only…but also,” “either…or,” “neither…nor,” and “both…and.”

Recognizing Non-Parallel Structures

Identifying non-parallel structures is the first step toward correction. Often, sentences feel awkward or clunky when their parts don’t match grammatically.

A common error involves mixing different grammatical forms within a list. You might see a noun followed by an infinitive and then a gerund, which breaks the flow.

Another frequent issue arises in comparisons. If you compare a noun to a clause, the sentence loses its balance and clarity.

Look for shifts in verb tense, voice, or word type when items are meant to be equal in importance.

Here are some examples of non-parallel structures:

• She enjoys hiking, to swim, and reading. (Gerund, Infinitive, Gerund)
• He was strong, brave, and had much courage. (Adjective, Adjective, Noun Phrase)
• The manager asked me to write the report, to organize the meeting, and that I should present the findings. (Infinitive, Infinitive, Clause)

How To Make A Sentence Parallel: Practical Strategies

Making a sentence parallel involves a systematic approach to ensure grammatical consistency. The goal is to match the form of each element in a series or comparison.

Start by identifying the elements that should be parallel. These are usually items in a list, phrases linked by conjunctions, or parts of a comparison.

Once identified, determine the grammatical form of the first item. This sets the pattern for all subsequent items.

Then, revise the remaining items to match that established grammatical form. Consistency is key to achieving a smooth, readable sentence.

Consider these steps for effective parallel construction:

1. Identify the Core Elements: Pinpoint the words or phrases that are being listed, compared, or joined.
2. Determine the Grammatical Category: Decide if the first element is a noun, verb, adjective, adverb, infinitive phrase, gerund phrase, or a clause.
3. Adjust Subsequent Elements: Change the grammatical structure of the other elements to align with the first.
4. Read Aloud: Often, reading the revised sentence aloud helps you hear if the rhythm and balance are correct.

Here is a table demonstrating corrections:

Non-Parallel Example	Parallel Correction
She enjoys running, to swim, and reading.	She enjoys running, swimming, and reading.
He was strong, brave, and had much courage.	He was strong, brave, and courageous.
The task required precision, speed, and being accurate.	The task required precision, speed, and accuracy.

Mastering Parallelism with Correlative Conjunctions

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words that connect grammatically equal elements in a sentence. These include “both…and,” “either…or,” “neither…nor,” “not only…but also,” and “whether…or.”

The rule for parallelism with these conjunctions is strict: the grammatical structure immediately following the first part of the conjunction must match the structure immediately following the second part.

This means if a noun phrase follows “not only,” then a noun phrase must also follow “but also.” If an infinitive follows “either,” an infinitive must follow “or.”

Paying close attention to the words directly after each part of the conjunction is essential for correct usage.

Let’s look at some correct constructions:

• Both the students and the teachers attended the workshop. (Noun Phrase, Noun Phrase)
• She decided either to study for the exam or to watch a movie. (Infinitive Phrase, Infinitive Phrase)
• He is neither happy nor sad about the news. (Adjective, Adjective)
• The book is not only informative but also entertaining. (Adjective, Adjective)

A common mistake is to place the first part of the conjunction too early in the sentence. Ensure the elements being connected are truly parallel.

Applying Parallelism in Various Contexts

Parallelism extends beyond simple lists and correlative conjunctions. It applies to various grammatical forms, enhancing clarity in complex sentences.

When comparing two things using “than” or “as,” ensure the structures on both sides of the comparison are identical. This creates a balanced and logical comparison.

For instance, comparing a noun to a verb phrase would be non-parallel. Always strive to match nouns with nouns, clauses with clauses, and so on.

Understanding how parallelism functions across different parts of speech and sentence structures is a mark of advanced writing skill.

Consider these applications:

• With Infinitives: She likes to read, to write, and to learn. (All infinitives)
• With Gerunds: Studying, practicing, and reviewing are essential for success. (All gerunds)
• With Clauses: I believe that we can succeed and that we will achieve our goals. (Both are “that” clauses)
• With Prepositional Phrases: He walked through the park, across the bridge, and into the building. (All prepositional phrases)

Here is a table illustrating different grammatical forms in parallel structure:

Grammatical Form	Parallel Example
Nouns	We need books, pens, and paper for the class.
Verbs	She sings, dances, and acts with great passion.
Adjectives	The new car was fast, sleek, and efficient.
Infinitives	He likes to run, to jump, and to play outdoors.
Gerunds	Learning, studying, and practicing are key to mastery.

Maintaining parallel structure consistently improves the flow and impact of your writing. It makes your ideas more digestible and memorable for your audience.

How To Make A Sentence Parallel — FAQs

What is the primary benefit of using parallel structure in writing?

The primary benefit of parallel structure is enhanced clarity and readability. It creates a sense of balance and rhythm, making sentences easier for readers to process. This consistency helps ideas flow smoothly and appear well-organized.

Can parallelism apply to single words, phrases, and clauses?

Yes, parallelism is versatile and applies to single words, phrases, and entire clauses. The key is that whatever grammatical form you use for one element, you must use the same form for all other corresponding elements. This ensures consistency across different levels of sentence structure.

How do I check if my sentence is parallel?

To check for parallelism, first identify the elements meant to be parallel, such as items in a list or parts of a comparison. Then, examine the grammatical form of each element. If the forms do not match—for example, a noun, then an infinitive—you need to revise for consistency.

What are correlative conjunctions, and how do they relate to parallelism?

Correlative conjunctions are pairs of words like “both…and” or “not only…but also” that connect grammatically equal elements. For correct parallelism, the structure immediately following the first part of the conjunction must exactly match the structure following the second part. This ensures the connected ideas are balanced.

Does parallelism affect the overall style and tone of my writing?

Yes, parallelism significantly affects writing style and tone. It lends elegance, precision, and authority to your prose. Consistent parallel structure makes your writing sound more polished and professional, conveying your ideas with greater impact and sophistication.