Which Sentence Correctly Uses Parallel Structure

Mastering Parallel Structure: Achieving Grammatical Harmony in Your Sentences

Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a fundamental principle of grammar that enhances clarity, readability, and the overall effectiveness of your writing. It involves using the same grammatical structure for items in a series or list, creating a pleasing rhythm and ensuring that your ideas are presented in a balanced and logical manner. Understanding and correctly applying parallel structure is crucial for crafting clear, concise, and persuasive sentences. This article delves into the intricacies of parallel structure, providing examples of correct and incorrect usage, and equipping you with the tools to confidently identify and implement this essential grammatical element.

Understanding Parallel Structure: The Basics

At its core, parallel structure means that elements within a sentence that are grammatically similar in function should also be similar in form. This typically involves matching nouns with nouns, verbs with verbs, adjectives with adjectives, phrases with phrases, and clauses with clauses. Inconsistency in grammatical structure creates awkwardness and can confuse your reader. Consider these examples:

Correct: She enjoys reading, writing, and drawing. (All gerunds)

Incorrect: She enjoys reading, to write, and drawing. (Mix of gerund and infinitive)

Common Types of Parallel Structure

Parallel structure isn't confined to simple lists. It manifests in various sentence structures:

Lists: This is the most straightforward application. Ensure each item in a list follows the same grammatical pattern.
Comparisons: When using comparative structures like "than" or "as," maintain parallel structure on both sides of the comparison.
Correlative Conjunctions: Words like both…and, either…or, neither…nor, not only…but also require parallel structures in the phrases they connect.
Compound Predicates: When a sentence has multiple verbs sharing the same subject, those verbs should be parallel.

Identifying and Correcting Parallel Structure Errors

Identifying errors in parallel structure often involves looking for inconsistencies in grammatical form. Look for lists or comparisons where the items don't seem to "match" grammatically. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Identify the Parallel Elements: Pinpoint the items in the series or comparison.
Determine the Grammatical Form: What part of speech is each element (noun, verb, adjective, etc.)? What structure is used (gerund, infinitive, participial phrase, etc.)?
Check for Consistency: Do all the elements share the same grammatical form?
Correct the Errors: If inconsistencies exist, revise the sentence to ensure parallelism.

Examples of Correct Parallel Structure

Let's examine several examples showcasing the correct implementation of parallel structure:

Using Gerunds: He enjoys swimming, hiking, and camping in the mountains.
Using Infinitives: She decided to study, to work, and to save money for her trip.
Using Noun Phrases: The teacher praised her intelligence, her dedication, and her perseverance.
Using Adjective Phrases: The house was spacious, well-lit, and beautifully decorated.
Using Prepositional Phrases: He traveled to Europe, across Asia, and throughout Africa.
Using Clauses: Because she loves to read, because she enjoys learning, and because she craves knowledge, she enrolled in the advanced literature course.
With Correlative Conjunctions: She is both intelligent and resourceful. He is neither lazy nor unmotivated.

Examples of Incorrect Parallel Structure and Their Corrections

Let's look at sentences with parallel structure errors and their corrected versions:

Incorrect: He is a kind, generous, and having a good heart person.

Correct: He is a kind, generous, and compassionate person. (All adjectives)

Incorrect: She likes to sing, dancing, and to paint.

Correct: She likes to sing, dance, and paint. (All infinitives or all gerunds)

Incorrect: The team was composed of experienced professionals, talented individuals, and who were highly motivated.

Correct: The team was composed of experienced professionals, talented individuals, and highly motivated people. (All noun phrases)

Incorrect: Not only is she intelligent, but also she is kind.

Correct: She is not only intelligent but also kind. (Parallel structure with the correlative conjunction "not only...but also")

Incorrect: My goal is to graduate college, getting a good job, and living happily ever after.

Correct: My goal is to graduate college, get a good job, and live happily ever after. (All infinitives)

Incorrect: The report was clear, concise, and it was well-organized.

Correct: The report was clear, concise, and well-organized. (All adjectives)

Parallel Structure in More Complex Sentences

The principles of parallel structure extend beyond simple lists. Consider more complex sentence structures:

Compound Sentences: When joining two independent clauses, ensure the grammatical structure of each clause is parallel if they're expressing similar ideas.
Complex Sentences: Maintain parallelism within subordinate clauses.
Comparisons using "than" and "as": Pay close attention to the grammatical structure on both sides of the comparison. For example: "She is as talented as she is hardworking".

The Importance of Parallel Structure in Academic and Professional Writing

Precise and elegant writing is paramount in academic and professional settings. Parallel structure plays a crucial role in achieving this. In academic papers, reports, and presentations, using parallel structure demonstrates a strong command of grammar and enhances the clarity and impact of your arguments. In professional communication, using parallel structure builds credibility and makes your writing more persuasive.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What happens if I don't use parallel structure?

A: Using inconsistent grammatical structures creates awkward and confusing sentences. It detracts from the overall clarity and readability of your writing. Your reader might struggle to understand your ideas, leading to misinterpretations.

Q: Is parallel structure always necessary?

A: While not always strictly mandatory, it's highly recommended for clarity and style. In many cases, parallel structure significantly improves the flow and elegance of your writing.

Q: How can I improve my ability to recognize and use parallel structure?

A: Practice is key. Read carefully and analyze the sentences of skilled writers. Pay attention to how they use parallel structure and try to replicate it in your own writing. Use grammar checkers, but remember that they are not foolproof; they may not catch all errors. Always proofread your work carefully.

Q: Are there exceptions to parallel structure rules?

A: There are rare stylistic exceptions, but these are generally used in very specific contexts and should be approached with caution. In most instances, sticking to parallel structure is the best way to ensure clarity and grammatical accuracy.

Conclusion: The Power of Parallelism

Mastering parallel structure is an investment in improving your writing significantly. By understanding the principles and practicing their application, you can enhance the clarity, readability, and persuasiveness of your sentences. Remember, consistency in grammatical form creates a harmonious rhythm, making your writing more engaging and effective for your reader. Take the time to learn and utilize this essential grammatical tool; the rewards will be evident in the quality and impact of your communication.