Parallelism: meaning, definitions and examples

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parallelism

[ˈper.ə.lel.ɪ.zəm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in writing

Parallelism is the use of similar grammatical structures in a sentence or paragraph. It helps create rhythm and balance in writing.

Synonyms

correspondence, repetition, similarity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parallelism	This term is often used in writing and programming. In writing, it refers to using the same sentence structure for clarity and effect. In programming, it refers to performing multiple operations simultaneously. The speech was powerful due to its parallelism: 'We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds.' Parallelism in computing can increase the speed and efficiency of data processing.
similarity	This term is used to compare how two or more things are alike without implying exact equality. Commonly used in everyday conversation and writing. There is a similarity between their viewpoints, even though they have different backgrounds. The twin brothers' similarity was so striking that people often confused them.
repetition	Repetition is used to emphasize something by repeating it. This can often be found in literature, speeches, and rhetoric. The author's use of repetition in the poem created a haunting rhythm. The coach stressed that repetition is key to mastering any skill.
correspondence	This word is used to describe a similarity or equivalence between things. Often it's seen in contexts like communication through letters or a match between data sets. The correspondence between the two texts is evident in their themes and writing style. He found a correspondence between the data from different sources that confirmed his hypothesis.

Examples of usage

His speech was full of parallelism, with each sentence mirroring the next.
The author's use of parallelism enhanced the flow of the text.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in mathematics

In mathematics, parallelism refers to the relationship between lines that will never intersect. Parallel lines have the same slope and will never cross each other.

Synonyms

equidirectional, equidistance, non-intersecting.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parallelism	Use when describing things that consistently match in direction or state, often in a technical or academic context. The parallelism in the architectural design gave the building a harmonious look The code's parallelism improved processing speed
equidistance	Used to describe the state of being equally distant in relation to something else. Commonly seen in geometry and geography. The cities are at equidistance from the capital, making decentralized administration easier In the design, the points are equidistant from the center ensuring symmetry
equidirectional	When describing things that move, face, or extend in the same direction. Often used in a more scientific context. Equidirectional wind patterns can significantly impact the climate of the region The equidirectional flow of the river tributaries prevents flooding
non-intersecting	Used when describing lines, paths, or trajectories that do not cross each other. Can be technical or everyday usage. The non-intersecting flight paths reduced the risk of mid-air collisions Non-intersecting roads help to reduce traffic congestion

Examples of usage

The concept of parallelism is crucial in geometry and trigonometry.
Parallelism can be observed in the design of various shapes and figures.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in computing

In computing, parallelism is the simultaneous execution of multiple tasks or processes. It allows for efficient use of resources and faster computation.

Synonyms

concurrency, multithreading, parallel processing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
parallelism	Used when describing tasks or processes that are executed simultaneously to improve performance or efficiency. The application uses parallelism to speed up data processing. Parallelism in computing can greatly reduce the time required to complete complex tasks.
concurrency	Applied when referring to systems that handle multiple tasks simultaneously, often managing tasks to use the same resources without conflicts. Concurrency in databases ensures that multiple transactions can occur without interfering with each other. The operating system uses concurrency to manage multiple applications running at the same time.
multithreading	Used when describing the ability of a CPU or an operating system to perform multiple threads within a single process, often for improving application performance. Multithreading allows a program to perform background tasks without freezing the user interface. Developers use multithreading to make applications more responsive.
parallel processing	Describes a computing method where multiple processors or cores execute and handle different parts of a task simultaneously. High-performance computing often relies on parallel processing to handle large-scale computations. Parallel processing is crucial for running complex simulations in real-time.

Examples of usage

Parallelism is utilized in multi-core processors to enhance performance.
The implementation of parallelism in algorithms can significantly reduce processing time.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word originates from Greek 'parallelos', meaning 'beside one another'.
It was first used in the English language around the late 16th century, gaining popularity in literature.
The term is also used in geometry to describe lines that run beside each other and never cross.

Literature

Many famous speeches, like those by Martin Luther King Jr., use parallelism to emphasize key points.
In poetry, using similar phrases can create rhythm and enhance the emotional impact on the reader.
Classic works like Julius Caesar by Shakespeare also showcase this technique to highlight contrasting ideas.

Rhetoric

Parallelism helps in making arguments more persuasive by repeating similar structures for emphasis.
It can also improve retention, helping audiences remember key points due to its rhythmic nature.
Writers often use it to create a sense of balance and harmony, making their texts enjoyable to read.

Psychology

Research shows that people are more likely to agree with statements that use parallel structures, as they feel more natural.
The brain tends to process repetitive patterns more efficiently, making parallelism a useful tool in communication.
Using parallelism can activate multiple areas of the brain, enhancing the message's impact.

Pop Culture

Popular songs often use parallelism to create catchy choruses, making them memorable for listeners.
Television scripts frequently rely on this technique for comedic effect, setting up expectations that are humorously subverted.
Catchphrases in modern media often utilize parallel structures to become more engaging and quotable.

Translations

Translations of the word "parallelism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paralelismo

🇮🇳 समानता

🇩🇪 Parallelität

🇮🇩 paralelisme

🇺🇦 паралелізм

🇵🇱 równoległość

🇯🇵 並行性

🇫🇷 parallélisme

🇪🇸 paralelismo

🇹🇷 paralellik

🇰🇷 병렬

🇸🇦 توازي

🇨🇿 paralelismus

🇸🇰 paralelizmus

🇨🇳 并行

🇸🇮 paralelizem

🇮🇸 samsíða

🇰🇿 параллелизм

🇬🇪 პარალელიზმი

🇦🇿 paralelizm

🇲🇽 paralelismo

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,582, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
13579 postponement
13580 ransom
13581 interchangeable
13582 parallelism
13583 weakest
13584 yell
13585 tactic
...