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Wordabulary

parallelism

Pronunciation
Noun B2 Upper-intermediate

Quick answer

The use of matching grammatical structures in a series of words, phrases, or clauses for balance and rhythm.

"'Government of the people, by the people, for the people' is a famous example of parallelism."

Usage notes

A common technique in speeches, since the repeated structure makes ideas easier for an audience to follow and remember.

Test yourself

Which word fits the gap? "'Government of the people, by the people, for the people' is a famous example of _____."

Answer: parallelism

In your own words, what does "parallelism" mean?

The use of matching grammatical structures in a series of words, phrases, or clauses for balance and rhythm.

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