B2adjective2K

Parallel

UK /["/ˈpærəlel/"]/US /["/ˈpærəlel/"]/

Definition

two or more lines that are parallel to each other are the same distance apart at every point

In simple words: Two lines or things that are the same distance apart and never meet.

Examples

  • parallel lines
  • The road and the canal are parallel to each other.
  • The lane is roughly parallel to the main road.
  • The road runs parallel with the coast.
  • parallel trends
  • Though still a committed painter, in 1978 she launched a parallel career as a photographer.
  • Two poisonings have been reported recently in London and now there has been a parallel case in the Netherlands.
  • parallel processing

Usage notes

Used in both mathematical and everyday contexts. In geometry, 'parallel' refers to lines; in metaphorical speech, it can describe similar situations. Avoid using in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of two train tracks running next to each other – they are always the same distance apart, never crossing.

Collocations

  • be
  • run
  • exactly
  • almost
  • nearly
  • to
  • with

Synonyms

  • equidistant
  • aligned
  • similar
  • corresponding
  • concurrent

Antonyms

  • perpendicular
  • divergent
  • intersecting

Common mistakes

  • 'Paralel' is a common misspelling.
  • Confusing 'parallel' with 'similar' in less clear contexts.
  • Using 'parallel' where 'perpendicular' is appropriate.