Parallel Structure

1
Parallel Structure
Parallel Structure means using the same pattern
of words to show that two or more ideas have the
same level of importance. This can happen at
three levels

• Word

• Phrase

• Clause

2
Words and Phrases
Incorrect
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and to ride a
bicycle.
Correct
Mary likes hiking, swimming, and riding a bicycle.
3
More Examples Words Phrases
Incorrect
The production manager was asked to write his
report quickly, accurately, and in a detailed
manner.
Correct
The production manager was asked to write his
report quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.
4
Examples continued
Incorrect
Angry ants, munched the marshmallows, crumbling
coffeecake, and sipping syrup, headed off across
the countertop.
Correct
Angry ants, munching marshmallows, crumbling
coffeecake, and sipping syrup, headed off across
the countertop.
5
Clauses
Parallel structure that begins with clauses must
continue on with clauses.
Incorrect
The coach told the players that they should get a
lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much,
and to do some warm-up exercises before the game.
Correct
The coach told the players that they should get a
lot of sleep, that they should not eat too much,
and that they should do some warm-up exercises
before the game
6
Lists after a colon
Incorrect
The dictionary can be used for these purposes to
find word meanings, pronunciations, correct
spellings, and looking up irregular verbs.
Correct
The dictionary can be used for these purposes to
find word meanings, pronunciations, correct
spellings, and irregular verbs.
7
Other things to watch for
Use parallel structure with pairs of words or
ideas.
Examples
Grannys method was tried and true
Man proposes. God disposes.
8
Use parallel structure on both sides of
coordinating conjunctions
(and, but, yet, or, nor, for, so)
Examples
She possessed all the wizards charm yet none of
the wizards insight.
Consult a doctor if your coughing persists or if
your coughing worsens over the weekend.
9
Correct the sentences with improper parallel
structure.
Sabrina has wit, charm, and she has an extremely
pleasant personality.
Sabrina has wit, charm, and a pleasing
personality.
10
Continued -
In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems
critically and she appreciated good prose.

• In English class, Tashonda learned to read poems
  critically and appreciate good prose.

11
Continued-
Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a
caring mentor, and friend.

• Coach Espinoza was a brilliant strategist, a
  caring mentor, and a wise friend.

12
Continued -
We found the film repulsive, offensive, and we
thought it was embarrassing.

• We found the film repulsive, offensive, and
  embarrassing.

Mr. Tran kept his store clean, neat, and he had
it conveniently arranged.

• Mr. Tran kept his store clean, neat, and
  conveniently arranged.

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The End