parallel 1 of 3

parallel

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noun

parallel

3 of 3

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective parallel contrast with its synonyms?

The words analogous and similar are common synonyms of parallel. While all three words mean "closely resembling each other," parallel suggests a marked likeness in the development of two things.

the parallel careers of two movie stars

When can analogous be used instead of parallel?

In some situations, the words analogous and parallel are roughly equivalent. However, analogous applies to things belonging in essentially different categories but nevertheless having many similarities.

analogous political systems

When would similar be a good substitute for parallel?

While the synonyms similar and parallel are close in meaning, similar implies the possibility of being mistaken for each other.

all the houses in the development are similar

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of parallel
Adjective
Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state charges expected to go to trial first. Michael R. Sisak and Alanna Durkin Richer, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2025 Prosecutors have said the two cases will proceed on parallel tracks, with the state case expected to go to trial first. Michael R. Sisak, Chicago Tribune, 1 Apr. 2025
Noun
Minimally Viable Product and Minimally Viable Communication Several parallels can be found between product development and message development. Matt Abrahams, TIME, 25 Mar. 2025 Massive parallel testing means Volvo can work through lots of unusual scenarios. Ars Technica, 19 Mar. 2025
Verb
National extremes The chasm between noteworthy raises and loftier cost-of-living growth across the nation often paralleled the broader economic patterns during these four years. Jonathan Lansner, Orange County Register, 17 Mar. 2025 What's even more revealing is how this parallels the consumer payment evolution. Sunil Rajasekar, Forbes, 14 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for parallel
Recent Examples of Synonyms for parallel
Adjective
  • Soon, police came for the families of gang members, for people whose tattoos looked similar to those of gang members, for people with any tattoos.
    Gisela Salim-Peyer, The Atlantic, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The apparel industry can adopt similar practices by integrating real-time data analytics and supplier quality management and enhancing supplier collaboration to reduce lead times and minimize stockouts.
    Sarah Jones, Sourcing Journal, 10 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Despite surface similarities, there was no official connection between the two shows.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 10 Apr. 2025
  • The similarities between the two bucks are striking, D&DH noted, but the source of the photo is unverified.
    Dac Collins, Outdoor Life, 9 Apr. 2025
Verb
  • With his 41st assist, Connor Bedard matched his rookie season’s 61 points, which lead the team.
    Phil Thompson, Chicago Tribune, 11 Apr. 2025
  • The biggest question mark would be matching Durant's massive salary.
    Daniel R. Depetris, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • This is analogous to our preventative and detective cybersecurity tools.
    James Blake, Forbes.com, 16 Apr. 2025
  • Efforts to deny the indigenous peoples of the Andes access to coca, as Smithsonian anthropologist Catherine Allen has written, are not analogous to outlawing, for example, beer in Germany, coffee in the Middle East, or betel chewing in India.
    Wade Davis, Rolling Stone, 6 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Creating timepieces that bear little resemblance to ordinary wristwatches (which traditionally feature a dial plate and hands, and attached by a strap, designed to be worn around the wrist) may seem like an unexpected move for Chanel, known for its classic styles.
    Milena Lazazzera, CNN Money, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Today the flat features a sleek, minimalist kitchen; a formal dining room for 10; a study; and a primary suite with large bay windows, a dressing room, and a very modern bathroom that likely bears little resemblance to Jagger’s days.
    Demetrius Simms, Robb Report, 15 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Ukraine and Russia agreed on March 18 to stop attacking each other's energy facilities, although President Vladimir Putin declined to endorse a full 30-day ceasefire that his U.S. counterpart Donald Trump had hoped would be a first step toward a permanent peace deal.
    Reuters, USA Today, 9 Apr. 2025
  • In a reciprocal show of respect, Lee handed over his ceremonial sword to Grant, only to have his counterpart return it.
    Made by History, Time, 9 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • One league executive said Malonga’s talent is comparable to presumptive No. 1 pick, UConn star Paige Bueckers, even if her public profile isn’t.
    Mike Vorkunov, New York Times, 14 Apr. 2025
  • When looking at gaming, the gender split for recent Super Mario Bros game releases was comparable to that of its feature film.
    Brad Adgate, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • The project manager plans, organizes, monitors, coordinates and administers the work on capital outlay projects from the planning/budget phase through the completion of construction.
    Veronica Fernandez-Alvarado, Sacbee.com, 4 Apr. 2025
  • South Korean officials said the incident was caused by human error, saying a pilot had input the wrong strike coordinates before taking off.
    Faisal Kutty, Newsweek, 12 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Parallel.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/parallel. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.

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