When comparing two things, it may be appropriate to use the phrase "draws a parallel." However, there are many synonyms that can be used to convey the same idea. For example, you may use "analogizes" if you want to stress the similarities between two different things. "Compares" is another word you may use when analyzing the similarities between things. You may also use "matches" when pointing out commonalities, or "liken" when you are trying to emphasize the similarities between two different things. Nonetheless, all these words are related to finding similarities or connections between things.