on a parallel course

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on a parallel course" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe two or more things that are progressing in a similar direction or manner, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The two projects are on a parallel course, aiming to achieve similar outcomes by the end of the year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Its major tributary is the Dâmboviţa, which flows through Bucharest on a parallel course.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Egypt was ostensibly on a parallel course of building a democratic and sustainable state; both ventures were perilous, fraught with uncertainty, and short of money.

The Guardian

If we're on a parallel course this year, and voter sentiment continues to shift against Republicans in Congress, we'll have yet another wave election.

The New York Times

"And because Karl is such a fascinating and unusual character and such an establishment figure at the same time — and of course so extraordinarily talented — it's just been on a parallel course".

The New Yorker

Emily begins to investigate and finds herself on a parallel course with a ruthless killer in searching for a file with damaging information about a rich and powerful man.

The Guardian - Books

He operated on a parallel course to contemporary art, commenting and satirizing, creating a vast multimedia universe that fomented an active mingling of painting, sculpture, collage, furniture and even works (most of which he owned) by the artists he admired.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Sydney closed to a distance of 9500 yards before turning to a parallel course with Emden.

Wikipedia

Lamellerie's squadron was spotted late on 26 February by lookouts on Hydra and Captain George Mundy, supported by Captain John Surman Carden on Moselle, steered a parallel course in the hope of cutting off their advance.

Wikipedia

In theory, a line of battleships so equipped could unleash a devastating volley of torpedoes on an enemy line steaming a parallel course.

Wikipedia

For example, students on Gettysburg's campus who enrolled in a class on Turkish politics met and collaborated virtually with students in a parallel course being offered at a Turkish university.

Huffington Post

The slopes of the regression lines followed a parallel course.

BMC Nephrology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on a parallel course" to clearly indicate that two or more things are developing or progressing in a similar, but not necessarily identical, manner. This is especially useful when comparing related but independent processes.

Common error

Avoid using "on a parallel course" when the intention is to describe identical progress or outcomes. The phrase implies similarity, not exact duplication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on a parallel course" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun, indicating a state or manner of progression. Ludwig AI's analysis, supported by numerous examples, confirms its versatility across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on a parallel course" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase used to describe similar but independent progression. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and usability across various contexts, from news and media to scientific discussions. While it may not be as common as other phrases, understanding its nuance and appropriate use can enhance clarity in writing. Remember to use it to indicate similarity, not exact duplication, and consider alternatives like "following a similar trajectory" or "progressing along similar lines" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following a similar trajectory

Focuses on the path or progression being similar.

progressing along similar lines

Emphasizes the similarity in the direction of progress.

moving in the same direction

Highlights the shared direction of movement or development.

developing along equivalent paths

Stresses the equivalence of the paths being followed.

advancing in a comparable manner

Indicates that the manner of advancement is similar.

running concurrently

Emphasizes the simultaneous nature of the activity.

proceeding side by side

Illustrates the physical or metaphorical closeness of the progression.

working in tandem

Highlights the collaborative or coordinated nature of the progress.

co-occurring

Focuses on the simultaneous occurrence of events or developments.

converging

Suggests a coming together or alignment of different paths.

FAQs

How can I use "on a parallel course" in a sentence?

You can use "on a parallel course" to describe two or more processes, projects, or ideas that are developing in a similar direction but independently. For example: "The two companies were "on a parallel course", each developing similar technologies."

What does "on a parallel course" mean?

The phrase "on a parallel course" means that two or more things are progressing in a similar direction or manner. It implies a likeness in the overall trajectory, even if the specific details or methods differ.

What can I say instead of "on a parallel course"?

You can use alternatives like "following a similar trajectory", "progressing along similar lines", or "moving in the same direction" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "on a parallel course" in formal writing?

Yes, "on a parallel course" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to describe similar but independent progress or development. Its usage is documented in diverse formal sources.