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.