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Understanding Parallel Structure in English
Parallel structure, also known as parallelism, is a way of writing where parts of a sentence are written in the same way. This makes the sentence sound nice and clear. It's like making sure all parts of a sentence are wearing matching clothes.
When we use parallel structure, we make sure that words, phrases, or clauses in a sentence follow the same pattern. This helps the reader understand our ideas better.
Important Points
Use parallel structure with words in a list.
Use parallel structure with phrases in a list.
Use parallel structure with clauses in a list.
Use parallel structure with pairs of ideas.
Examples
I like running, jumping, and swimming.
She wants to sing and to dance.
He is smart, kind, and funny.
In the first example, all the activities are in the 'ing' form: running, jumping, swimming. This is parallel structure because they all match.
In the second example, the words 'to sing' and 'to dance' are both in the same form, which makes the sentence balanced.
In the third example, all the words describing the person are adjectives: smart, kind, funny. This keeps the sentence balanced and easy to read.
Examples
We want to eat, to play, and to sleep.
The dog is barking, running, and playing.
She was happy, excited, and nervous.
Remember, using parallel structure is like making sure all your toys are lined up in a row, all facing the same way. It makes everything look neat and tidy!
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