《中式英语之鉴》- Part 2 - I I

昊宝宝

Summary of Content:
(1) Parallel Structure
Parallel structure refers to the use of the same grammatical pattern or form to connect multiple elements within a sentence. This technique enhances clarity, coherence, and readability. It can be applied at various levels, including within individual sentences, paragraphs, and even across multiple paragraphs. For example, when using coordinating conjunctions such as "and," "or," and "but" to connect two or more phrases or clauses, maintaining parallel structure is crucial. Similarly, in lists, the grammatical form of each item should be consistent. Parallel structure is also important in comparisons, sentences with linking verbs, and constructions with correlative conjunctions like "either... or" and "not only... but also."
(2) Logical Connectives
Logical connectives are words or phrases that link propositions or sentences, clarifying or altering their logical relationships. Common examples include "and," "or," "not," "if... then," and "because." These connectives help to establish connections between ideas, making the text more coherent and logical. For instance, "and" is used to show addition or conjunction, "or" indicates alternatives, "not" negates a statement, and "because" introduces a reason or cause. Proper use of logical connectives ensures that the flow of ideas is smooth and that the reader can easily follow the intended meaning.

Evaluation:
The discussion on parallel structure and logical connectives in "Chinglish: The Dos and Don’ts" is both informative and practical. The book provides clear explanations and numerous examples that illustrate how these grammatical elements should be used correctly. This approach is particularly helpful for English majors like myself, as it not only enhances our understanding of grammatical rules but also improves our ability to write more naturally and effectively in English. The emphasis on avoiding common errors associated with Chinglish is especially valuable, as it helps us recognize and correct the mistakes that often arise from directly translating Chinese sentence structures into English.

Reflection:
As a second-year English major who is committed to improving my language skills, I found this section of the book to be highly beneficial. It has made me more aware of the importance of maintaining parallel structure and using logical connectives appropriately in my writing. In the past, I sometimes struggled with creating coherent and natural-sounding sentences, but now I have a clearer understanding of how to achieve this. I plan to apply these principles more consciously in my future writing assignments and practice exercises. Additionally, I will pay closer attention to these aspects when reading English texts, as this will further reinforce my understanding and help me internalize these concepts. Overall, this book has not only deepened my knowledge of English grammar but also inspired me to strive for greater accuracy and fluency in my language use.