parallels

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "parallels" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it as a noun to refer to links between two or more things, or as a verb to mean to compare or draw a comparison. For example: "The parallels between the struggles of modern immigrants and those of previous generations are striking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Being a self-described "cheese nerd" might seem a long way from the UN but for Yescas there are parallels.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Other parallels with his England tenure raise that possibility.

The Guardian - Sport

With work on the bridge running late, the project is viewed by some as having parallels with Hull's quest to become the UK's city of culture: a costly act of hubris.

The Guardian

However, the communes' residents draw parallels with what is happening in other parts of London, such as Hackney, Brixton and Newham, where people have been threatened with eviction as social landlords seek to capitalise on rising property prices, their actions threatening to undermine established, diverse neighbourhoods.

The Guardian

"I don't want to associate myself with Turner, but there are certain parallels," he concedes.

The Guardian - Film

The reason parallels the situation in the UK, where David Cameron returned with a majority of seats conjured from a bare plurality of votes.

The Guardian

When a project becomes magic and special it means that at certain points in the script it parallels your story".

The Guardian - Film

Decoded, the central theme of the allegory parallels Saint-Exupéry's own wanderlust, his contempt for the consumer age, his meeting with other "roses", and his recognition that he had made a commitment to take care of the unique flower on asteroid B-612, for all her vanity.

The Guardian - Books

The parallels continue between 1993, when the Observer exposed the existence of the "back channel", and the summer of 2010.

The Guardian

Last week's episode made a show of parallels between Kima and Daniels' marital problems in a rather contrived (I thought) sequence of the two couples having dinner with classical music playing in the background.

The Guardian

Camilla may or may not have appreciated the parallels but if she did, they may not have been entirely comfortable for her.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "parallels", ensure you clearly articulate what aspects are being compared to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "There are parallels", specify "There are parallels in their economic policies".

Common error

Avoid implying a perfect match when using "parallels". Differences often exist, so acknowledge these nuances to maintain credibility. For instance, instead of stating "The situations are completely parallel", consider saying "The situations share notable parallels, but important differences remain".

Linguistic Context

The word "parallels" primarily functions as a plural noun, referring to similarities or correspondences between two or more things. As Ludwig AI has mentioned it's correct and usable in English. The examples confirm this usage across various contexts, showing how it connects different concepts or situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parallels" is a very common and grammatically sound term used primarily as a plural noun to denote similarities or comparisons between different entities. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and widely applicable. Predominantly found in news and media, as well as formal business contexts, the word serves to draw comparisons, aid understanding, and provide context. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse audiences, writers should ensure clarity when articulating comparisons and avoid overstating the strength of the identified "parallels".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

similarities

Focuses specifically on shared attributes or features.

resemblances

Highlights the likeness in appearance, qualities, or characteristics.

correspondences

Emphasizes a direct relationship or matching aspect between two things.

analogies

Highlights a similarity in some respects between things otherwise dissimilar.

comparisons

Refers to the act of examining resemblances or differences.

connections

Indicates a link or association, often less precise than "parallels".

alignments

Implies a matching position or arrangement.

correlations

Suggests a mutual relationship or connection, often in a statistical sense.

common threads

Highlights shared themes or elements that link different concepts or narratives.

links

A general term for connections or associations.

FAQs

How can I use "parallels" in a sentence?

You can use "parallels" as a noun to refer to similarities or comparisons between two or more things. For example: "The "parallels" between the two historical events are striking."

What are some alternatives to using "parallels"?

Alternatives to "parallels" include "similarities", "correspondences", or "analogies", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "parallels between" or "parallels with"?

"Parallels between" is generally preferred when discussing the similarities between two distinct entities or concepts. "Parallels with" is also acceptable, but slightly less common.

What is the difference between "parallels" and "similarities"?

"Parallels" often suggests a more structural or systematic comparison, while "similarities" can refer to more general shared qualities. "Parallels" are often more in-depth and indicative of underlying patterns.