What is Parallelism?
Parallelism is a grammatical term used to describe an element of sentence structure. Parallel structure is achieved when the same word pattern is used in a sentence. This strategy of using the same word pattern can be applied to words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence.
Using parallel structure in business communication ensures that sentences are clear, concise, and accurate.
Parallelism at the word level
| Incorrect |
David wants the customer complaint dealt with precisely, thoughtfully, and as soon as possible. |
His initiative on work/life balance was bold, timely, and can be praised. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
David wants the customer complaint dealt with precisely, thoughtfully, and immediately. |
His initiative on work/life balance was bold, timely, and praiseworthy. |
Parallelism at the phrase level
| Incorrect |
Successful managers know how to manage their time, lead teams, and are effective communicators. |
After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes to watch movies, going for a run, and chat with his friends. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
Successful managers know how to manage their time, lead teams, and communicate effectively. |
After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes to watch movies, go for a run, and chat with his friends. or After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes watching movies, going for a run, and chatting with his friends. |
Parallelism at the clause level
| Incorrect |
The maintenance report stated that the furnace filter needed to be replaced, that the wiring needed updating, and the cracked tiles should be repaired. |
The new product launch was a success because we had several samples and because customer questions were answered by product experts. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
The maintenance report stated that the furnace filter needed to be replaced, that the wiring needed updating, and the cracked tiles needed to be repaired. |
The new product launch was a success because we had several samples and product experts answered customer questions. |
Parallelism with correlative conjunctions
Correlative Conjunctions are pairs of words used to connect two parts of a sentence with equal value.
When correlative conjunctions are used the structure must be parallel and the verb and subject agreement must be correct.
When used correctly correlative conjunctions can enhance our writing. However, in business writing it is recommended to avoid complicated correlative conjunctions that alter word order in sentences.
| Examples of Correlative Conjunctions | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| either/or | neither/nor | such/that | not only/but also |
| as many as | rather than | no sooner/than | whether/or |
| not/but | both/and |
In the sample sentences below, stifled sentences distinguished by an asterisk * are grammatically correct but should largely be avoided.
| Either/or |
This pair connects two positive statements of equal value. Oscar is either in his office or on the factory floor. Maria