closely parallels

USAGE SUMMARY

"closely parallels" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that two things are very similar. For example, "The plot of the novel closely parallels the life of its author."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

CopyrightX closely parallels the HLS course on Copyright.

Harvard University

It closely parallels the modern mawlid in form.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The development of modern taxicabs closely parallels that of automobiles.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Its response to estrogen replacement closely parallels that seen in humans.

Osteoporosis

Here, the story of the "Second Book" closely parallels that of "Mein Kampf".

The New Yorker

One of the candidates is Tim Leiweke, whose experience closely parallels Checketts's.

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Matthews's vision of the personal rewards of boxing closely parallels Ms. Rijker's.

The New York Times

Ms. Sontag's description -- with a line eliminated and some minor words changed -- closely parallels Mrs. Coleman's.

The New York Times - Books

The state's story, Mr Wuthnow writes, closely parallels that of America itself.

The Economist

The spirit of the letter closely parallels that of the Fourth Gospel.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The debate Mr. Clinton tripped upon in Vietnam closely parallels the one under way in China today.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "closely parallels" to highlight a significant degree of similarity or resemblance between two distinct entities or processes. This implies more than a passing resemblance; it suggests a fundamental connection or mirroring effect.

Common error

Avoid using "closely parallels" when the resemblance is superficial or only partial. Ensure that the shared characteristics are significant and form a core part of the comparison. A weaker term like "resembles" or "is similar to" may be more appropriate if the parallel is not substantial.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely parallels" functions as a verb phrase indicating a strong similarity or correspondence between two subjects. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts, reinforcing its role in drawing comparisons.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

30%

News & Media

29%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "closely parallels" is a verb phrase used to express a strong resemblance or correspondence between two subjects. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and wide applicability. It's essential to use this phrase when the similarity is significant and not merely superficial. Alternatives include phrases like "bears a strong resemblance to" or "mirrors closely". The phrase sees frequent use in scientific, news media, and academic contexts, indicating a neutral to formal register. Remember to use it to connect two subjects that have a robust connection to each other.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

corresponds closely with

Focuses on alignment or agreement; implies a more direct relationship or connection.

aligns closely with

Suggests agreement or conformity; often used in strategic or directional contexts.

mirrors closely

Suggests a reflection or exact correspondence; can imply a direct influence.

strongly resembles

Highlights similarity in appearance or nature; slightly less emphasis on the degree of correspondence.

is strikingly similar to

Emphasizes the noticeable similarity; focuses on how obvious the resemblance is.

bears a strong resemblance to

Emphasizes visual or superficial similarities; slightly less formal.

is highly analogous to

Emphasizes a functional or structural similarity; more formal and often used in technical contexts.

runs parallel to

Suggests things that continue side by side; focuses on continuous relationship.

shares many features with

Highlights the common attributes between two or more things; less emphasis on exact correspondence.

is virtually identical to

Indicates an almost perfect match; stronger emphasis on sameness.

FAQs

How can I use "closely parallels" in a sentence?

You can use "closely parallels" to indicate a strong similarity between two subjects. For example, "The development of modern taxicabs "closely parallels" that of automobiles".

What are some alternatives to "closely parallels"?

Alternatives include phrases like "bears a strong resemblance to", "mirrors closely", or "strongly resembles", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "closely parallels"?

No, "closely parallels" should only be used when the similarity is significant and fundamental. If the resemblance is superficial, consider using weaker terms like "is similar to" or "resembles".

What's the difference between "closely parallels" and "is similar to"?

"Closely parallels" suggests a more profound and comprehensive similarity than "is similar to". The former implies a mirroring or fundamental connection, while the latter simply indicates some shared characteristics.