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Parallel structure

Easy · TOEFL style

The rules
  • Words joined in a list take the same form, nouns with nouns and adjectives with adjectives: The room was clean, bright, and quiet.
  • A list of verbs keeps the same tense and form: She packed her bag, locked the door, and left.
  • A series of -ing words stays -ing all the way through: Cooking, cleaning, and shopping take time.
  • A series of to + verb keeps the same pattern: We came to learn, to play, and to explore.
  • Paired connectors are followed by the same kind of part: He is not only clever but also kind.
  • In a comparison, both sides take the same form: Walking is cheaper than driving.
  • Compare like with like, using that of or those of when needed: The climate of Jumla is colder than that of Biratnagar.

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