What Is Parallel Structure? Definition, Examples & Tips
Clear definition
Parallel structure — often called parallelism — is the practice of using the same grammatical form for two or more elements in a sentence. In plain language, it means matching parts of a sentence so they follow the same pattern, making writing clearer and easier to read.
When you ask "what is parallel structure" you are asking how to make lists, comparisons, and linked ideas sound balanced and professional. The simple rule: keep similar ideas in the same grammatical shape (all nouns, all -ing verbs, all infinitives, etc.).
Examples
Here are a few concrete examples that show incorrect vs. correct parallel structure.
- Incorrect: She likes swimming, to bike, and jogs in the park.
Correct: She likes swimming, biking, and jogging in the park. - Incorrect: The job requires attention to detail, being punctual, and you must work independently.
Correct: The job requires attention to detail, punctuality, and the ability to work independently. - Incorrect: He wanted not only to win the award but also that his work be recognized.
Correct: He wanted not only to win the award but also to have his work recognized.
Common errors
Mixing grammatical forms is the most frequent mistake: pairing infinitives with gerunds or nouns with clauses. That disrupts rhythm and can confuse readers.
Other typical errors include faulty comparisons (e.g., "better than to" vs "better than to be") and inconsistent verb tense or voice within coordinated phrases. Correlative conjunctions — such as both/and, either/or, neither/nor, not only/but also — require special care: the elements that follow each part must be parallel.
Actionable fix: rewrite the sentence focusing on the repeated element. Isolate the list or comparison, decide on one grammatical form, and convert each item to match.
Quick editing checklist to enforce parallel structure
- Identify coordinated elements connected by and, or, nor, but, or correlative pairs.
- Decide on one grammatical form (e.g., all gerunds, all infinitives, all noun phrases).
- Convert each item to that form and read the sentence aloud to check rhythm and clarity.
Related terms
- Parallelism — Another name for parallel structure; emphasizes balance across sentence parts.
- Correlative conjunctions — Paired conjunctions (both/and, either/or) that require parallel elements on each side.
- Gerund — A verb form ending in -ing used as a noun; commonly used in parallel lists (e.g., running, swimming, cycling).
- Clause coordination — The linking of independent clauses with conjunctions; maintaining parallel structure ensures coordinated clauses match grammatically.
Practical tips to improve your parallel structure now
- Scan for lists and correlative pairs during revision; they are the most likely places for errors.
- Read sentences aloud. Uneven rhythm often reveals nonparallel construction.
- Use substitution: temporarily replace complex items with simple placeholders (e.g., "X, Y, and Z") to see whether forms align.
- If you use AI tools, try Rephrasely’s AI writer to generate parallel alternatives and the Composer to restructure sentences. Use the plagiarism checker and AI detector to validate originality and style when editing.
How Rephrasely can help
Rephrasely offers a paraphraser to suggest parallel rewrites and an AI writer that drafts balanced sentences. Use the tools to experiment with alternatives and to ensure consistency across lists and comparisons.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is parallel structure in a sentence?
Parallel structure in a sentence is when two or more parts use the same grammatical pattern, such as all nouns, gerunds, or infinitives. It creates grammatical balance and improves clarity and flow.
Why is parallel structure important?
Parallel structure improves readability, strengthens arguments, and prevents ambiguity. Balanced sentences are easier to process and sound more professional in academic, business, and creative writing.
How can I check my writing for parallel structure?
Identify lists and correlative pairs, choose one grammatical form, and convert each item to match. For faster editing, try Rephrasely’s paraphraser and AI writer to test alternative phrasings, then verify with the AI detector or plagiarism checker as needed.