close parallel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close parallel" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used mainly to describe a similarity in two things that are being discussed. An example of its usage is: "The close parallel between the two situations makes it obvious that the same solution is needed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

People who closely follow state government said they could think of only one close parallel, the late-night passage last October of a hastily drafted casino gambling bill pushed by the governor.

The New York Times

Will Frears directs William Goldman's snowbound script, a close parallel of his 1990 screenplay.

The Guardian

There is, she suggests, a close parallel between yeast and us.

The Guardian

There is a close parallel between the euro crisis and the international banking crisis of 1982.

The Guardian - Business

There's a close parallel here with the increasing use of the hand-held camera in cinema.

The Guardian

None of these examples, however, poses a close parallel to what happened in Germany in 1933.

The New York Times

Chief Justice John Roberts isn't related to his namesake but the current Roberts' move today marks a close parallel.

University of California, Berkeley

An increase in operational capacity under VFR is possible with the use of a close parallel runway configuration.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Japanese experts point out, however, that it may be a mistake to draw such a close parallel.

The New York Times

In a close parallel to the outcome in the prisoner's dilemma game, Dr. Gilman won't be charged with any crime.

The New York Times

Surely there is a close parallel between A Scattering and Birthday Letters, the latter a collection of poems that Hughes wrote to his dead wife Sylvia Plath?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "close parallel" to effectively draw comparisons between two distinct subjects, enhancing clarity and understanding by highlighting shared characteristics or developments.

Common error

Avoid using "close parallel" when the connection is weak or superficial; instead, opt for terms like "slight resemblance" or "loose association" to accurately reflect the relationship.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close parallel" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically serves to identify a significant degree of similarity or correspondence between two distinct entities or situations, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

34%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Academia

7%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close parallel" is a commonly used phrase that effectively highlights significant similarities between distinct entities or situations. Ludwig AI indicates that it functions as a noun phrase, serving to draw comparisons and establish connections. It maintains a neutral to professional register and is prevalent in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the similarities are substantial and relevant to avoid misrepresenting the relationship between the subjects being compared. For alternatives, consider "strong resemblance", "striking similarity", or "marked correspondence" to better suit the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

direct parallel

Highlights the direct and uncomplicated nature of the relationship.

near equivalence

Implies that two things are almost the same in value, meaning, or effect.

similar connection

Emphasizes the link between the two entities instead of the degree of closeness.

striking similarity

Highlights that the similarity is easily noticeable or remarkable.

strong resemblance

Emphasizes visual or superficial similarity more than a functional or abstract connection.

strong likeness

Refers to similarity in appearance or qualities, not necessarily function.

marked correspondence

Indicates a clear and distinct relationship or agreement between two things.

tight correlation

This emphasizes the strength and reliability of the relationship.

evident analogy

Focuses on the shared characteristics that allow for comparison and inference.

significant correlation

Suggests a statistical relationship or interdependence between variables.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "close parallel" in a sentence?

Use "close parallel" to highlight significant similarities between two different concepts or situations, making sure the comparison adds value to your explanation. For example: "There's a "direct parallel" between the economic policies of the two countries".

What phrases can I use as alternatives to "close parallel"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases such as "strong resemblance", "striking similarity", or "marked correspondence" to convey a similar meaning. Each emphasizes a slightly different nuance of similarity.

Is it always appropriate to use "close parallel" when comparing two things?

No, use "close parallel" only when the similarities are substantial and relevant. If the connection is weak, consider using phrases that suggest a looser relationship, like "tenuous connection".

How does "close parallel" differ from "similar but not identical"?

"Close parallel" suggests a strong similarity in the development, structure, or function of two things, whereas "similar but not identical" simply points out that two things share some characteristics without implying a deep connection.