Academic Writing Skills

Parallelism /Parallel Structure

Part one
Lecturer: Mr Abdifatah Nur
What does parallelism mean?
It means the use of the same pattern of words for two
or more ideas that have the same level of importance.
This can happen at word, phrase, or clause level.
 Noun-noun
Verb-verb
Gerund-gerund
Adjective-adjective
Adverb-adverb
Examples
Noun-noun
Not parallel: Learning a language requires patience,
dedication and to revise.
Parallel: Learning a language requires patience,
dedication and revision.
Not parallel: The position demands experience,
friendly, and the willingness to get up early.
Parallel: The position demands experience,
friendliness, and the willingness to get up early.
Examples
Verb-verb
Not parallel: He sings and dancing.
Parallel: He sings and dances.
Not parallel: She wanted to be safe, be rich and
happiness.
Parallel: She wanted to be safe, be rich and be
happy.
Examples
Gerund-gerund
Not parallel: She likes hunting, to take afternoon
naps and to watch TV.
Parallel: She likes hunting, taking afternoon naps
and watching TV.
Not parallel: I like to swim and fishing.
Parallel: I like swimming and fishing.
Examples
Adjective-adjective
Not parallel: The course is worthwhile, and a
challenge.
Parallel: The course is worthwhile and challenging.
Not parallel: Your response shouldn’t be vague and
ambiguity.
Parallel: Your response shouldn’t be vague and
ambiguous.
Examples
Adverb-adverb
Not parallel: The students were asked to do their
assignments quickly, accurately, and in detailed
fashion.
Parallel: The students were asked to do their
assignments quickly, accurately, and thoroughly.
Not parallel: The reasons have to be stated clearly, and
in a careful manner.
Parallel: The reasons have to be stated clearly, and
carefully.
Quiz
Correct the following sentences
1. He likes swimming, hiking and to ride a motorcycle.
2. Ahmed is a politician, a lawyer, and he teaches.
3. The soldiers approached the enemy camp slowly and silent.
4. This book contains poems that are romantic, soothing, and
can be enjoyed.
End