What is parallel structure in English, and when should it be used? In this article, IDP will walk you through this essential grammar concept, commonly tested in high school exams and widely used in the IELTS Writing test.
In addition to core grammar topics like gerunds, auxiliary verbs, or adverbial clauses, mastering parallel structure is crucial for improving writing fluency and clarity. Parallelism appears frequently in both formal writing and standardized English tests such as IELTS.
Let’s explore the definition, use cases, rules, and common errors of parallel structure in English grammar.
1. What Is Parallel Structure?
Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a grammatical technique that uses repetition and balance of words, phrases, or clauses with the same grammatical structure within a sentence or paragraph.
Examples of parallel structure:
Ryan likes swimming, hiking, and riding a motorcycle.
I went home, took a shower, changed my clothes, and ate some lunch.
Why is parallel structure important?
It enhances clarity and consistency in writing.
It highlights important ideas with equal weight.
It makes comparisons and contrasts more comprehensible.
It reduces redundancy, making writing more elegant and logical.
2. How to Use Parallel Structure in English
Parallel structure is widely used in English writing, particularly in academic texts and even English song lyrics. Below are the most common grammatical rules for applying parallelism effectively:
Using Coordinating Conjunctions: for, and, nor, but, or, yet, so
When listing items or actions, parallel structure is often used with coordinating conjunctions.
Examples:
Would you like to read a book, watch a movie, or go for a walk?
My friend likes reading books, listening to music, and watching TV.
Using Correlative Conjunctions
Parallel structure also applies to correlative conjunctions like:
not only… but also…
neither… nor…
either… or…
both… and…
would rather… than…
whether… or…
no sooner… than…
hardly… when…
Examples:
He not only studies hard but also works well.
The company deals in both hardware and software.
Using Lists or Series
When presenting a list or sequence, ensure all elements share the same grammatical form.
Examples:
Our new house is spacious, modern, and close to the city center.
The team needs to improve their teamwork, communication, and strategy.
Using Comparisons and Contrasts
Parallel structure is often used when comparing or contrasting ideas.
Examples:
She swims faster than she runs.
The new computer is as good as the old one, with the added benefit of being smaller.
Using "To be" Constructions
When emphasizing opinions or linking related clauses, use parallel structure with the to be verb.
Examples:
To dream is to envision a better future.
To listen is to understand deeply.
3. Common Mistakes with Parallel Structure
Errors in parallelism can confuse readers and weaken your writing. Here are key issues to avoid:
Guideline | Correct Example |
Use consistent word forms, verb tenses, and structures | Mary likes hiking, biking, and running. |
Identify and match the main verb of the sentence | She enjoys playing the piano, painting portraits, and writing stories. |
Use the same noun type (singular/plural/count/uncount) | Joel packed sneakers, sweatpants, and three pairs of socks. |
Keep subject or object references consistent | The chef is preparing ingredients and tasting the sauce. |
4. Parallel Structure Practice Exercises
Exercise 1: Rewrite the sentences using parallel structure
Eggs contain not only protein but are also full of vitamins. → Eggs contain not only protein but also vitamins.
They are low in sodium but do not have many calories. → They are low in sodium but high in calories.
Eggs, however, are high in cholesterol and rather fat filled. → Eggs are high in cholesterol and fat.
The yolk of one egg contains 213 milligrams of cholesterol and there are 5 grams of fat. → The yolk contains 213 milligrams of cholesterol and 5 grams of fat.
Still, the whites are both fat-free and have no cholesterol. → The whites are both fat-free and cholesterol-free.
Exercise 2: Use the correct verb forms
Not only does she enjoy ______ (read) novels, but she also likes ______ (view) films and listening to music. → reading, viewing
We can choose to either ______ (dine) at the bistro, ______ (prepare) food at home, or ______ (order) takeout. → dine, prepare, order
My friend and I enjoy ______ (hike), ______ (capture) photos, and ______ (discover) new places. → hiking, capturing, discovering
We enjoy both ______ (watch) films and ______ (prepare) meals together. → watching, preparing
The company focuses on ______ (develop) products, ______ (enhance) services, and ______ (expand) markets. → developing, enhancing, expanding
Master Parallel Structure in IELTS Writing with IDP
Understanding and applying parallel structure correctly can significantly improve your IELTS Writing score. It helps ensure your sentences are clear, concise, and well-organized. To practice, try writing on various topics and reviewing your sentence structure for fluency and consistency.
Explore more free study materials from IDP or take an IELTS mock test to get familiar with test format and timing. You can also choose to take IELTS on computer, depending on your study goals and preferences.
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