Which quality distinguishes parallelism in writing?

• A. Rhyme and rhythm
• B. Clarity and brevity
• C. Balance and similarity of structure
• D. Complexity and variety of thoughts

Answer: (C)

Parallelism in writing is distinguished by balance and similarity of structure. This rhetorical device involves using the same grammatical form in multiple parts of a sentence or in successive sentences to create a sense of rhythm and clarity. When writers employ parallel structure, they help ensure that their ideas are presented in a coherent and organized manner, making the text easier to understand and more engaging for the reader.

For example, in a sentence like "I enjoy reading, writing, and jogging," the use of parallelism with the gerund forms makes the ideas flow smoothly, creating a rhythm that is pleasing to the ear while also highlighting the equal importance of each activity. This structural balance enhances the effectiveness of the writing, as it emphasizes the relationships among the ideas presented.

While other options might relate to different aspects of writing, they do not specifically encapsulate the essence of parallelism, which is fundamentally about creating a balanced and similar structure within the text.