What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abreast
Example
The two friends walked abreast down the street. [abreast: adverb]
Example
The team needs to stay abreast of the latest industry trends. [abreast: preposition]
parallel
Example
The train tracks run parallel to each other. [parallel: adjective]
Example
The two stories have parallel themes. [parallel: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parallel is more commonly used than abreast in everyday language. Parallel is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while abreast is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abreast and parallel?
Both abreast and parallel can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, parallel is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
