Definition: Parenthesis Punctuation
A parenthesis is a word, phrase, or sentence inserted into writing as extra information using brackets, commas, or dashes. If the parenthesis is taken away, the passage would still be complete without it – it’s an afterthought or bonus. The plural is a parenthesis.
Parenthesis is excellent for adding extra information to your writing that might not be essential, but you think it is valuable anyway.
What is an example of parenthesis?
Take a look at these example sentences to see the parenthesis at work.
- Please read the analysis (I hope you enjoy it).
- Joe (accompanied by his trusty Bassett hound dog) was always welcome.
- When he got home (it was already dark outside), he fixed dinner.
- You are late for class again (aren’t you?).
- My friend Chloe (three months older than me) is coming to my house tonight.
