To complete our discussions on parallel construction, we’ll take up three more techniques for achieving structural balance and better rhythm for our sentences: (1) When a sentence begins with a clause, sustain a parallel clause pattern for the other serial elements; (2) Use parallel structure for adjectives and adverbs; and (3) Use parallel structure for serial grammar elements serving as complements of a sentence.

A parallel structure that begins with a clause should sustain that pattern all the way. When a sentence shifts from the clause pattern to phrase form, or when any clause shifts from active to passive voice or the other way around, the parallelism falls apart. The sentence gets disjointed and doesn’t read well.

Premium + Digital Edition

Ad-free access


P 80 per month
(billed annually at P 960)
  • Unlimited ad-free access to website articles
  • Limited offer: Subscribe today and get digital edition access for free (accessible with up to 3 devices)

TRY FREE FOR 14 DAYS
See details
See details