What is Parallelism?
Parallelism is a grammatical term used to describe an element of sentence structure. Parallel structure is achieved when the same word pattern is used in a sentence. This strategy of using the same word pattern can be applied to words, phrases, or clauses within a sentence.
Using parallel structure in business communication ensures that sentences are clear, concise, and accurate.
Parallelism at the word level
| Incorrect |
David wants the customer complaint dealt with precisely, thoughtfully, and as soon as possible. |
His initiative on work/life balance was bold, timely, and can be praised. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
David wants the customer complaint dealt with precisely, thoughtfully, and immediately. |
His initiative on work/life balance was bold, timely, and praiseworthy. |
Parallelism at the phrase level
| Incorrect |
Successful managers know how to manage their time, lead teams, and are effective communicators. |
After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes to watch movies, going for a run, and chat with his friends. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
Successful managers know how to manage their time, lead teams, and communicate effectively. |
After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes to watch movies, go for a run, and chat with his friends. or After a stressful day at the office, Martin likes watching movies, going for a run, and chatting with his friends. |
Parallelism at the clause level
| Incorrect |
The maintenance report stated that the furnace filter needed to be replaced, that the wiring needed updating, and the cracked tiles should be repaired. |
The new product launch was a success because we had several samples and because customer questions were answered by product experts. |
|---|---|---|
| Corrected |
The maintenance report stated that the furnace filter needed to be replaced, that the wiring needed updating, and the cracked tiles needed to be repaired. |
The new product launch was a success because we had several samples and product experts answered customer questions. |
Parallelism with correlative conjunctions
Correlative Conjunctions are pairs of words used to connect two parts of a sentence with equal value.
When correlative conjunctions are used the structure must be parallel and the verb and subject agreement must be correct.
When used correctly correlative conjunctions can enhance our writing. However, in business writing it is recommended to avoid complicated correlative conjunctions that alter word order in sentences.
| Examples of Correlative Conjunctions | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| either/or | neither/nor | such/that | not only/but also |
| as many as | rather than | no sooner/than | whether/or |
| not/but | both/and |
In the sample sentences below, stifled sentences distinguished by an asterisk * are grammatically correct but should largely be avoided.
| Either/or |
This pair connects two positive statements of equal value. Oscar is either in his office or on the factory floor. Maria is either filling orders or answering the telephone. |
|---|---|
| Neither/nor |
This pair connects two negative statements of equal value. Unfortunately, he possesses neither the stamina nor the skill. * He will neither provide his feedback nor attend the meeting. * |
| Such/that |
This pair connects two independent clauses to demonstrate a reason for an action. The presenter spoke with such passion that all the listeners agreed to his suggestion. He used such inappropriate language that I had to stop his presentation. Such is the amount of my work that I cannot leave my desk. * |
| Whether/or |
This pair connects two possible actions of a subject. She was not sure whether the disgruntled client would show up or not. We will continue with our outdoor employee barbecue whether or not it rains. I don’t know whether he’ll select blue or green for the company logo. |
| Not only/but also |
This pair connects two items of equal value. He is not only an accountant but also a lawyer. She not only handles corporate sales but also manages quality control. |
| Rather/than |
This pair denotes a preference for one thing over another. I would rather do data entry than content edits. Donald would rather focus on life/work balance than on making more money. |
| Both/and |
This pair connects two elements. Our product is suitable for both children and adults. He was determined both to win the account and get a raise. After the strike, management ended up both extending employee benefits and increasing paid vacation time. |
Exercises
Activity 1: Click on the link below to complete the quiz.
Let’s get parallel! (https://www.noslangues-ourlanguages.gc.ca/en/quiz/jeu-quiz-paralleles-parallel-eng)
Activity 2: Correct the following sentences for faulty parallelism.
- He suggested that we go for a meal then we should review our PowerPoint for our presentation next week.
- Did you decide not to participate in the four-day work week trial because you are manager or since it might interfere with your workout schedule?
- She logged on to her computer, located the file, after that she began to review the data.
- The labour unrest caused the union workers to strike, and they joined together to picket at various locations.
- Geri’s presentation was clear, entertaining, and it taught our team a lot.
- Our bookkeeper is good at entering data, reconciling reports, and he can identify errors quickly.