parallel motion: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Academic
Quick answer
What does “parallel motion” mean?
Two or more parts moving in the same direction while maintaining a constant interval between them.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
Two or more parts moving in the same direction while maintaining a constant interval between them.
In music, the simultaneous movement of two or more melodic lines in the same direction, maintaining the same interval. In engineering/mechanics, the movement of two or more components along paths that remain equidistant and do not converge or diverge.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling follows regional norms for 'parallel'.
Connotations
Identical technical connotations in music theory and engineering contexts.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both varieties.
Grammar
How to Use “parallel motion” in a Sentence
[Subject] moves in parallel motion with [Object][Composer] uses parallel motion between [Part A] and [Part B][Component A] and [Component B] are linked in parallel motion.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “parallel motion” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The inner voices parallel-motion the melody.
- The mechanism is designed to parallel-motion the two actuators.
American English
- The harmonies parallel-motion each other in the chorus.
- The robotic arms can parallel-motion for precise assembly.
adverb
British English
- The parts moved parallel-motionly along the guide.
- (Extremely rare usage)
American English
- The vehicles advanced parallel-motionly down the lanes.
- (Extremely rare usage)
adjective
British English
- The parallel-motion linkage is a key feature.
- He composed a parallel-motion passage for the strings.
American English
- The parallel-motion mechanism ensures stability.
- The piece features parallel-motion harmonies.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Potentially in strategic planning: 'The two departments advanced in parallel motion towards the shared goal.'
Academic
Common in musicology, physics, and engineering papers to describe coordinated systems or voice leading.
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used descriptively: 'The cyclists rode in perfect parallel motion along the path.'
Technical
Primary domain. Precise descriptor in mechanical design, robotics, and music theory.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “parallel motion”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “parallel motion”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “parallel motion”
- Using 'parallel movement' interchangeably in all contexts (less idiomatic in core music theory). Confusing with 'simultaneous motion' (which doesn't specify maintained intervals).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. 'Parallel motion' specifically requires maintaining a constant interval or distance, not just direction. Two objects moving east but drifting apart are not in parallel motion.
In highly technical jargon, it can be verbed (e.g., 'the voices parallel-motion'), but this is non-standard for general English. The noun form is standard.
It creates a specific sonic texture. Historically, certain types (like parallel fifths) were considered undesirable in some styles because they reduced the independence of the musical lines.
The blades of a pair of scissors opening and closing, or the tines of a fork when lifted straight up and down.
Parallel motion is usually technical/academic in register.
Parallel motion: in British English it is pronounced /ˈpærəlel ˈməʊʃ(ə)n/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈpɛrəˌlɛl ˈmoʊʃ(ə)n/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None. It is a technical compound noun.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of train tracks: two rails running side-by-side (parallel) in the same direction (motion), never getting closer or farther apart.
Conceptual Metaphor
COORDINATION IS PARALLEL MOTION (e.g., 'Our teams worked in parallel motion').
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'parallel motion' most precisely and technically defined?