parallel between the three

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "parallel between the three" is not correct in standard English usage.
It is typically used to discuss similarities or comparisons among three subjects or items. Example: "There is a clear parallel between the three theories presented in the paper."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

One of the ways in which More tries to establish the link between Cartesianism and the teachings of Moses is by arguing for a close parallel between the three types of matter, or three elements, discerned by Descartes, and the three successively rarefied "vehicles" of the soul in Platonised versions of Christian doctrine, the terrestrial, the aerial, and the aetherial.

SEP

When population B splits into B1 and B2 there are six migration processes operating in parallel between the three populations; two between B1 and B2, two between A and B1 and two between A and B2.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

There is a parallel between the two in most everything.

The New Yorker

He draws an unexpected parallel between the two professions.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

US satirist Jon Stewart has drawn the parallel between the two here (kicks in at 4.13).

The Guardian - Opinion

And if Campbell is attempting a parallel between the two couples' situations, the gender and race politics get very dodgy.

The Guardian

But there is another parallel between the two situations that you didn't mention.

The Economist

The number of Mormons throughout the world may soon equal that of Jews, and, indeed, many see a parallel between the two faiths.

The New Yorker

There is another interesting parallel between the two companies.

TechCrunch

She is only one of a number of Americans who have drawn a parallel between the two cases - though others point out there are major differences.

BBC

We draw a close parallel between the two.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

For clarity, use "similarity among the three" or "comparison of the three" instead of "parallel between the three". These alternatives are grammatically correct and widely accepted.

Common error

Avoid using "between" when referring to three or more items. "Between" typically applies to two items. For three or more, use "among".

Linguistic Context

The phrase's intended function is to express a similarity or correspondence involving three distinct elements. Ludwig AI notes it's not standard English. Its use aims to draw connections or comparisons, but grammatical inaccuracy hinders effective communication.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "parallel between the three" attempts to express a similarity among three items but is considered grammatically incorrect, as Ludwig AI explains. The correct form would be "similarity among the three" or "comparison of the three". While examples exist in science and news media, its rarity and grammatical issues suggest avoiding it. To ensure clarity and accuracy, using correct alternatives is advisable, maintaining a neutral and formal tone in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similarity among the three

Replaces "parallel" with the more general term "similarity" and uses "among" for three or more items.

comparison of the three

Focuses on the act of comparing, rather than the existence of a parallel.

correspondence between the three

Highlights a direct relationship or similarity between the items.

connection between the three

Emphasizes a link or association, which may be less specific than a direct parallel.

relationship among the three

Indicates a broader connection, encompassing various types of associations.

commonality among the three

Focuses on shared characteristics or features.

linkage between the three

Suggests a connection or bond, often implying a causal relationship.

association among the three

Highlights a connection or relationship without specifying its nature.

correlation between the three

Implies a statistical relationship or interdependence.

analogy between the three

Uses the term "analogy" focusing on the comparison of items.

FAQs

What is a more grammatically correct alternative to "parallel between the three"?

A more grammatically sound alternative would be "similarity among the three" or "comparison of the three".

When should I use "between" versus "among"?

"Between" is typically used when referring to two distinct items or people. "Among" is used when referring to three or more items or people that are not clearly distinct.

Is "parallel between the three" ever considered acceptable?

While some instances may exist, it's generally considered grammatically incorrect. Strive for alternatives like "similarity among the three" for clearer communication.

How does the meaning change if I use "among" instead of "between" in the phrase?

Using "among" correctly indicates that you're discussing a relationship or likeness involving three or more entities, making the statement grammatically accurate. "Between" implies only two.