In English grammar, parallel structure refers to the use of similar grammatical forms in a list or series of phrases or clauses. This means that each element in the series has the same grammatical form, which creates a balanced and organised structure in the sentence.
For example, the sentence “I like to read, to write, and to learn” uses parallel structure because each element in the series (“to read,” “to write,” and “to learn”) has the same grammatical form (a verb preceded by the word “to”). This creates a balanced and organised structure in the sentence, which makes it easier to understand and remember.
Another example of parallel structure is the sentence “He is tall, dark, and handsome.” This sentence uses parallel structure because each element in the series (“tall,” “dark,” and “handsome”) has the same grammatical form (an adjective). This creates a balanced and organised structure in the sentence, which makes it easier to understand and remember.
Overall, parallel structure is an important aspect of English grammar, and it is used to create clear and effective sentences. It helps to make sentences more organised and coherent, and it can make them easier to understand and remember.
Here are a few exercises you can try to practice using parallel structure to create English sentences:
- Identify and fix any errors in parallelism in the following sentences:
- She likes to run, to swim, and cycling.
- I need to buy milk, bread, and to pick up some eggs.
- He enjoys reading, watching TV, and playing video games.
Corrected sentences:
- She likes to run, to swim, and to cycle.
- I need to buy milk, bread, and pick up some eggs.
- He enjoys reading, watching TV, and playing video games.
- Rewrite the following sentences to use parallel structure:
- She likes to dance, to sing, and plays the guitar.
- He enjoys hiking, camping, and fishing.
- I need to study for my math test, finish my science project, and write my history essay.
Corrected sentences:
- She likes to dance, to sing, and to play the guitar.
- He enjoys hiking, camping, and fishing.
- I need to study for my math test, finish my science project, and write my history essay.
- Write five original sentences using parallel structure. For example: “I like to read, to write, and to draw.”
- I enjoy running, swimming, and biking.
- She loves to cook, to bake, and to garden.
- He wants to travel, to learn, and to explore.
- I need to wash the dishes, clean the kitchen, and mop the floor.
- They plan to study, to work, and to play.
By practicing using parallel structure in your sentences, you can improve the clarity and coherence of your writing. Keep practicing and you’ll become more comfortable using this important grammar concept. Good luck!
