parallelljustering

Parallelljustering, also known as parallel alignment or parallel justification, refers to the process of aligning text within a block of text so that both the left and right margins are straight and even. This technique is commonly used in typography and document design to create a visually balanced appearance.

In typography, parallelljustering is often contrasted with ragged-right justification, where only the left margin is aligned, and the right margin follows the natural word breaks. Parallelljustering is particularly favored in printed materials, such as books and newspapers, because it creates a more uniform and polished look. However, it can sometimes lead to irregular spacing between words and letters, a phenomenon known as "rivering," where gaps appear in the text resembling flowing water.

The process involves adjusting the spacing between words and letters to ensure that all lines of text end at the same position. This is typically handled automatically by word processing software, which distributes the extra space evenly across the line. Manual parallelljustering is less common today due to the efficiency of digital tools, but it was a manual task in traditional typesetting.

While parallelljustering is widely used in print media, it is less common in digital or web-based content, where readability and fluidity of text are often prioritized over strict alignment. Designers may choose between parallelljustering and ragged-right alignment based on the medium, audience, and intended aesthetic of the document.