What is parallel? Pronunciation and usage in English

parallel means . Learn how to pronounce and use parallel through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of parallel

paralleladjective

/ˈparəlɛl/
Definition & pronunciation of parallel

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "parallel." It's a tricky one for many English learners! Here's a breakdown:

The most common and accepted pronunciation is:

  • /ˈpær.ə.lēl/ (IPA - International Phonetic Alphabet)

Let's break that down syllable by syllable:

  1. ˈpær: This is like "par" as in "park." The stress is on this first syllable. You want a fairly open sound – not too tight.

  2. ə: This is a schwa sound – the most common vowel sound in English. It's a short, unstressed "uh" sound. Think of it like the "a" in "about."

  3. lēl: This is pronounced like "le-el." It’s a quick, clipped "el" sound, almost like the "el" in "feel" but a bit shorter.

Putting it all together, it sounds like: "PAR-uh-lehl"

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: Make sure you stress the first syllable ("par"). This is the key to making it sound right.
  • Schwa: Don't try to force a strong "uh" sound in the second syllable. It’s a very subtle, relaxed vowel.
  • Quick "el": The "el" is short and fast. Don’t drag it out.

Resources for hearing it:

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Usage and examples with the word parallel in English

Let's break down how to use the word "parallel" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with several different meanings! Here's a breakdown, categorized for clarity:

1. Lines & Shapes (Most Common)

  • Meaning: Running alongside each other, equally distant. Think of railroad tracks!
  • Examples:
    • "The two roads run parallel to each other." (Physical lines)
    • "The lines of the drawing are parallel." (Geometric shapes)
    • "The stripes on the shirt are parallel."

2. Similarities & Relationships (Figurative)

  • Meaning: Similar in nature, structure, or function; proceeding at the same rate or time. This is where it gets a bit more nuanced.
  • Examples:
    • "Parallel universes:** The theory suggests that there might be other universes existing alongside ours, similar but not identical." (Similar realities)
    • "Parallel play: A stage in child development where children play alongside each other but not with each other." (Similar activities)
    • "Parallel storylines: In a novel, this means two or more plots that move at the same pace and often intertwine." (Similar narratives)
    • "Parallel thinking: Considering different perspectives on a problem simultaneously." (Similar thought processes)

3. Processes & Activities (Similar Pace)

  • Meaning: Happening at the same time or rate; coordinated.
  • Examples:
    • "The training program is designed to teach parallel skills." (Developing skills simultaneously)
    • "The scientists are conducting parallel research projects." (Working on related projects concurrently)

4. (Less Common) Asymmetrical & Facing

  • Meaning: Running in the same direction but not directly on top of each other. Sometimes used to describe architecture.
  • Example: “The two wings of the building are parallel.”

Key Words & Phrases to Help You Understand the Context

  • Alongside: Often used with "parallel" to describe lines or objects. "The paths run alongside each other."
  • Same as: Highlights the similarity. "The two points are the same as."
  • Concurrent: Similar to “parallel,” often used in fields like mathematics and statistics to mean happening or existing at the same time.
  • In parallel: Used as a phrase to indicate simultaneous action. "We need to work on these tasks in parallel."

Tips for Using "Parallel" Correctly:

  • Consider the context: The meaning of "parallel" changes based on whether you’re talking about lines, ideas, or processes.
  • Think about the relationship: What’s being compared? Is it a physical similarity, a structured resemblance, or a coordinated activity?

Resources for Further Learning:

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  • In what context are you trying to use the word "parallel"? (e.g., writing a story, explaining a concept, answering a question)

Synonyms for the word parallel

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