parataxis

noun

para·​tax·​is ˌper-ə-ˈtak-səs 

ˌpa-rə-

: the placing of clauses or phrases one after another without coordinating or subordinating connectives

Examples of parataxis in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And yet, the fragile surety of that parataxis is stylistically undercut by the nebulous musings attached to one exceptionally promiscuous metaphor. — Emily Cox, ARTnews.com, 22 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Greek parátaxis "placing side by side, marshaling (of troops)," from paratag-, stem of paratassein "to place side by side, put (troops) in proper rank" (from para- para- entry 1 + tássein "to draw up in order [as troops, ships], post, place in order") + -sis -sis — more at tactic entry 2

First Known Use

circa 1842, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for parataxis

• chemotaxis
• epistaxis
• prophylaxis
• anaphylaxis
• axis
• praxis
• taxus
• chemoprophylaxis

Medical Definition

parataxis

noun

para·​tax·​is -ˈtak-səs 

plural parataxes -ˌsēz 

: the parataxic mode of thinking