The word "parenthetical" is an adjective that describes something that is used to explain or qualify something else, often placed in parentheses (the round brackets: ( )). When we use "parenthetical" in writing, it refers to additional information that is included but not essential to the main point.
Simple Explanation:
Meaning: "Parenthetical" means something that adds extra information or clarification, often shown in parentheses.
Example: In the sentence "My brother (who is a great cook) made dinner," the phrase "who is a great cook" is parenthetical because it gives extra information about my brother but doesn't change the main idea of the sentence.
Usage Instructions:
Use "parenthetical" when you want to describe remarks, phrases, or clauses that are added to provide more detail but are not crucial to the main point.
When writing, you can use parentheses to include parenthetical information.
Advanced Usage:
In academic writing, parenthetical citations are often used to credit sources. For example, "Many people argue that climate change is a serious issue (Smith, 2020)."
In literature, parenthetical statements can be used for humorous effect or to provide commentary without interrupting the flow of the narrative.
Word Variants:
Parenthesis (noun): The plural form is "parentheses," which refers to the actual symbols ( ) or the additional information enclosed within them.
Parenthetical remark (noun): A comment or phrase that is placed in parentheses.
Different Meanings:
Synonyms:
Additional
Incidental
Extra
Supplementary
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
While "parenthetical" itself does not have common idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to it, you can think of phrases like "by the way" or "in passing," which often introduce parenthetical thoughts in conversation.
Summary:
In summary, "parenthetical" is a useful term in writing and speaking that helps to clarify or add details without taking away from the main point.