Parenthesis

Noun

Definition: A punctuation mark indicating an interruption or asides in a sentence, usually set off by curved brackets, dashes, or commas.

Synonyms: Bracket, Enclosure

Antonyms:

Examples:
  • The additional information in parentheses clarifies the main point of the sentence.
  • She added a parenthetical remark to emphasize her opinion.
Mnemonics:
  • Parentheses wrap around additional information in a sentence, just like actual parentheses wrap around something.

Etymology:

Origin:

From the Greek word "parenthese," meaning "to insert."

Historical Usage:

The use of parentheses in writing dates back to Ancient Greece, where they were used to add supplementary information to texts.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"In parentheses"

Explanation:

Referring to something that is not the main focus or point, but rather an additional note or comment.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing parentheses with other types of brackets.

Explanation:

Parentheses are specific curved brackets used to enclose aside information in a sentence, different from square brackets or braces.

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