Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Parallel” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
Two lines or things going in the same direction, always the same distance apart, never meeting. Or: two similar things happening at the same time.
Meaning of Parallel
Extending or running in the same direction with a constant distance apart; never meeting or crossing. Also: similar or comparable in certain ways.
How to Pronounce Parallel
IPA: /ˈpærəlel/ Stress: Ooo
Stress the first syllable: PAR-uh-lel. Three syllables. The 'a' sounds are both the schwa sound (uh). The final syllable is unstressed.
4 Synonyms for Parallel — Words Similar to Parallel
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
similar
/ˈsɪmələr/Almost the same but not exactly identical; alike in some ways.
Example: These two paintings are very similar in style.
analogous
/əˈnæləɡəs/Similar in some important way, even though the things themselves are different. Two things that work the same way or have the same role but come from different sources.
Example: The human brain is analogous to a complex computer system in many ways.
equivalent
/ɪˈkwɪvələnt/The same value or importance. Two different things that work the same way or mean the same thing.
Example: One pound is roughly equivalent to 453 grams.
Smart Synonyms for Parallel — When to Use Each
similar
General term for things that resemble each other
analogous
Formal; emphasizes structural similarity and comparison
concurrent
Emphasizes happening at the same time simultaneously
How to Use Parallel and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- The two railway tracks run parallel to each other across the landscape. B2
- There are parallel developments in technology and education. B2
- Her career followed a parallel path to her sister's in medicine. B2
Common Word Choice Mistakes with Parallel
Not natural: I see a parallel from your situation.
Better: I see a parallel with your situation. / I see a similarity to your situation.
Use 'parallel with' for comparison, not 'parallel from'. Or use 'similarity to'.
Not natural: We can parallels this structure to the previous one.
Better: We can draw a parallel between this structure and the previous one. / We can parallel this with the previous one.
'Parallel' as a verb is rare; use 'draw a parallel' or 'compare' instead.
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Parallel
What is another word for "parallel"?
Common synonyms for "parallel" include: similar, comparable, analogous, equivalent.
What can I say instead of "parallel"?
Try one of these alternatives: similar, comparable, analogous, equivalent. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "parallel" formal or informal?
"parallel" is generally used in formal contexts. Use it in writing, business, and academic settings.
When should I use "parallel" instead of "similar"?
Use "parallel" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "similar" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.