running parallel to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "running parallel to" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase can be used to mean that two or more things are occurring at the same time in a similar direction. For example, "The two rallies were running parallel to each other, both vying for the same result."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The road is a dirt one, running parallel to a highway under construction.

The New York Times

The plans include an esplanade and a bicycle trail running parallel to the riverbank.

The New York Times

Sun screens and lighting baffles, running parallel to the curves, accentuate the infrastructural image.

The New York Times - Arts

The walkway running parallel to Madeira Drive is closed to people because it is too dangerous.

The Guardian

Mr Starr's inquiry, thanks to the Lewinsky tapes, is now running parallel to this one.

The Economist

Running parallel to Via Maqueda, Via Roma is another important thoroughfare.

Independent

I then marked a line running parallel to the opposite wall and to the threshold.

The New York Times

Gasquet switched gears and dashed to the side, running parallel to the net.

The New York Times

This court action is running parallel to but separately from proceedings to remove activists from the churchyard outside the cathedral.

The Guardian

This is a slim wood running parallel to the A140 to the west and Ansons Lane to the east.

The Guardian - Travel

Almost immediately we saw a breeze-block settlement running parallel to the road and swung off to enter it.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "running parallel to" to clearly indicate that two or more things are progressing or situated in a similar direction or manner at the same time. This can apply to both physical objects (like roads) and abstract concepts (like investigations).

Common error

Avoid using "running parallel to" when you simply mean 'similar to' or 'related to'. The phrase implies a specific sense of ongoing, side-by-side progression, not just a general resemblance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "running parallel to" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb. It describes the manner or direction in which an action is performed, often indicating simultaneity and similarity in path or development. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

32%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "running parallel to" is a versatile phrase used to indicate that two or more elements are progressing simultaneously in a similar direction or manner. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and its prevalence across diverse fields like news, science, and encyclopedias underscores its utility in both formal and neutral contexts. The phrase is useful for indicating simultaneous progression. Be mindful of using alternatives like "alongside" or "concurrent with" to avoid redundancy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

parallel to

A more concise version of the query, omitting the continuous aspect.

side by side with

Emphasizes the close physical proximity and simultaneous existence.

alongside

Single word alternative for expressing physical proximity, simpler and less formal.

concurrent with

Highlights simultaneous occurrence or operation.

in alignment with

Focuses on agreement or correspondence, suitable for abstract concepts.

simultaneous with

Similar to concurrent but emphasizes the exact timing.

coexisting with

Highlights the simultaneous existence of separate entities or concepts.

in conjunction with

Indicates a combination or cooperation of elements.

in coordination with

Highlights coordinated action or cooperation between different entities

equidistant from

Emphasizes maintaining the same distance apart, implies a geometric relationship.

FAQs

What does "running parallel to" mean?

The phrase "running parallel to" means that two or more things are progressing or situated in a similar direction or manner at the same time. It can describe physical objects or abstract concepts.

How can I use "running parallel to" in a sentence?

You can use "running parallel to" to describe roads, investigations, or even processes that are developing alongside each other. For example: "The new highway is running parallel to the old one", or "The two investigations are "running concurrently to" each other".

What can I say instead of "running parallel to"?

You can use alternatives like "alongside", "side by side with", or "concurrent with", depending on the specific context. Consider whether you want to emphasize physical proximity, simultaneous occurrence, or conceptual alignment.

Which is correct, "running parallel to" or "runs parallel to"?

"Running parallel to" is part of a continuous tense verb phrase, implying an ongoing action or state. "Runs parallel to" indicates a simple present tense, suggesting a habitual or general characteristic. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning and the surrounding sentence structure.