Parallel Structure in Sentences

What is parallel structure in a sentence?

Which of the following revised sentences makes the original phrase more parallel? a) The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and to keep out of the cold. b) The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and to avoid the cold. c) The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and keep out of the cold. d) The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and keeping out of the cold.

Answer:

The sentence that best exhibits parallel structure is: 'The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and to avoid the cold.'

Parallel structure in a sentence refers to using the same grammatical form for similar elements in a sentence, such as nouns with nouns or infinitive verbs with infinitive verbs. In this case, the correct answer is option b) 'The canaries need large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water, and to avoid the cold.'

All elements following 'need' in this sentence are either nouns (large cages, wooden perches, some fresh water) or an infinitive verb (to avoid). This consistency in grammatical form maintains parallel structure and makes the sentence clearer and more effective.

It's important to pay attention to parallel structure in sentences to ensure clarity and coherence in writing. By using consistent grammatical forms for similar elements, readers can easily follow the ideas presented in the sentence. This enhances the overall quality of writing and helps convey information more effectively.