parallel clause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "parallel clause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in discussions about grammar or sentence structure, particularly when referring to clauses that are similar in form or function within a sentence. Example: "In the sentence, 'She likes to swim, to bike, and to run, the parallel clauses create a rhythm that enhances the overall flow."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

That's because it follows the Hebrew syntax of parallel clauses connected by "and," which is important in many ways.

Columbia University

Make it parallel: "Her brother said that the two … and that Ms. Cansiz …" The stylebook says this: Often a sentence with two parallel clauses requires the expression and that in the second part; in such a case, keep that in the first part also, for balance: The mayor said that she might run again and that if she did, her brother would be her campaign manager.

The New York Times

The parallel clauses are pervasively used in slogans for stylistic formal symmetry.

Lingua Sinica

In the subsequent three parallel that-clauses, the writer spells out the basic theoretical underpinnings that constitute her proposed field – CDA.

Functional Linguistics

When parallel to the clause, an information unit represents the default, or unmarked, condition.

Functional Linguistics

In its unmarked condition, we consider a unit of information in Arabic as parallel to a clause with the sequence Predicator-Subject-Complement-Adjunct.

Functional Linguistics

The appositive construction of "once a symbol" is not parallel with the relative clause "which gave …" Rephrase.

The New York Times

This issue is also related to the identity condition, since it would appear in many cases that there is no parallel movement in the antecedent clause.

Yale University

Take the parallel phrases in the last clause of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address: "… government of the people by the people for the people, shall not perish from the earth".

The New York Times

The "wherein the crime shall have been committed" language of the clause is in parallel with the venue provision of Article Three—"where the said Crimes shall have been committed".

Wikipedia

In parallel construction, multiple words, phrases or clauses all attach to a sentence the same way.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "parallel clauses" to create rhythm and balance in your writing, making it more engaging and memorable. For instance, in the sentence, 'She likes to swim, to bike, and to run', the parallel clauses create a harmonious flow.

Common error

Avoid creating sentences where the clauses intended to be parallel do not share the same grammatical structure. For example, instead of writing 'She enjoys swimming, biking, and to run', ensure all elements are in the same form: 'She enjoys swimming, biking, and running'.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "parallel clause" primarily functions as a grammatical term. It's used in linguistic discussions to describe sentence structures where multiple clauses have a similar form and function, enhancing the balance and rhythm of the writing.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Academia

30%

News & Media

30%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "parallel clause" is a grammatical concept used to describe clauses with similar structures and functions within a sentence, contributing to balance and rhythm. While examples are limited, it’s recognized and accepted in formal and scientific contexts, particularly in discussions about grammar and linguistic analysis. Alternative terms like "coordinated clause" and "equivalent clause" can be used. According to Ludwig AI, this term is correct and usable in written English, advising users to maintain consistent grammatical structures to avoid errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

equivalent clause

This term emphasizes that the clauses are of equal grammatical weight.

coordinated clause

This alternative highlights the coordination between clauses of equal importance.

balanced clause

This emphasizes the structural balance achieved through parallelism.

corresponding clause

This focuses on the similarity or correspondence in structure and function.

matched clause

This suggests that the clauses are paired or matched in some way.

symmetrical clause

This highlights the symmetry in the structure of the clauses.

similar clause

A general term indicating a resemblance between clauses.

parallel construction

Wider term that refers to any grammatical construct with similar structure.

parallel structure

More general term for having parallel grammatical components in the sentence.

isocolon

Specifically describes parallel clauses or phrases of similar length and structure.

FAQs

What does "parallel clause" mean in grammar?

A "parallel clause" refers to a grammatical structure where clauses within a sentence have similar forms or functions. This creates balance and rhythm, enhancing readability and emphasis.

How do I identify "parallel clauses" in a sentence?

To identify "parallel clauses", look for clauses that share the same grammatical structure and perform similar functions. For example, in the sentence 'He likes to read, to write, and to paint', each clause follows the 'to + verb' structure.

What are some common mistakes when using "parallel clauses"?

A common mistake is failing to maintain the same grammatical structure across all clauses. Ensure consistency in verb tense, sentence structure, and part of speech. For example, avoid mixing infinitive phrases with gerunds in a series.

What are the benefits of using "parallel clauses" in writing?

Using "parallel clauses" can enhance the clarity, rhythm, and overall impact of your writing. It helps emphasize key points and makes complex sentences easier to understand and more memorable. You can consider related terms such as "coordinated clause" or "equivalent clause".