Parataxis

usgb/ˌpærəˈtæksɪs/
noun

A writing way where ideas or sentences are placed side by side, without showing their relationship using conjunctions like 'and' or 'but'.

In the sentence 'I eat, I sleep, I repeat.', the use of parataxis is evident as the clauses are related but not connected with conjunctions.
Visual representation of "parataxis" - A writing way where ideas or sentences are placed side by side, without showing their relationship using conjunctions like 'and' or 'but'.

Often appears as...

  • use of parataxis
  • example of parataxis

Usage tips

Formal

Literary

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Visual representation of "parataxis"
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Literary Technique

Parataxis is often used in literature to create a dramatic effect by putting equal weight on each idea.

Illustration for Literary Technique
The sun rose, the birds sang, the day began.
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Emotionally Intense

Writers use parataxis to evoke strong feelings or urgency without elaborating, making the text emotionally charged.

Illustration for Emotionally Intense
Fire raging, wind howling, earth trembling.
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Cultural Icon

Parataxis is common in historic texts, such as speeches and religious literature, forming a bridge to cultural understanding.

Illustration for Cultural Icon
Veni, vidi, vici.
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Compare with

appositioncoexistentcoordinatecorrelatorjuxtapositionparallelsimultaneitysynchronization
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Visual representation of the word "Parataxis"

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