Identifying Parallel Construction- A Comparative Analysis of the Following Options

Which of the following options show parallel construction?

Parallel construction is a grammatical device that involves using the same grammatical form for items in a list or series. It is commonly used to create a sense of balance and emphasis in writing. In this article, we will explore various options to determine which ones demonstrate the use of parallel construction effectively.

Parallel construction is essential in maintaining clarity and readability in sentences. When elements in a list are expressed in a parallel manner, readers can easily compare and contrast the items. This technique is particularly useful in legal documents, business communications, and academic writing. Let’s analyze the following options to identify those that showcase parallel construction:

Option A: She enjoys reading, cooking, and traveling.

Option B: She likes to read, cook, and to travel.

Option C: She enjoys reading, cooking, and she loves to travel.

Option D: She reads, cooks, and enjoys traveling.

Option E: She reads, cooks, and she loves to travel.

In Option A, the list of activities is presented in parallel form, with each element using the same verb tense (“enjoys”). This option demonstrates parallel construction effectively.

Option B is not parallel because the phrase “to travel” is not in the same grammatical form as the other elements in the list. Therefore, it does not showcase parallel construction.

Option C is not parallel because it breaks the list into two separate clauses, using “and she loves to travel” as a separate thought. This disrupts the parallel structure.

Option D is parallel because it uses the same verb tense (“reads,” “cooks,” “enjoys”) for each element in the list. This option effectively demonstrates parallel construction.

Option E is not parallel because it repeats the phrase “she loves to travel,” breaking the list into two separate clauses. This disrupts the parallel structure.

In conclusion, Options A and D show parallel construction, as they use the same grammatical form for each element in the list. Parallel construction is a valuable tool in writing, helping to create clear and cohesive sentences. By recognizing and applying parallel construction, writers can enhance the overall quality of their work.