What does parenthetical mean?
The term parenthetical refers to a remark, phrase, or comment that is added to a sentence, passage, or text to provide supplementary information, clarify a point, or offer an aside. Parenthetical information is often set off by parentheses, dashes, or commas, and can be thought of as a tangential or incidental comment that is not essential to the main meaning of the text. This type of information can be used to add nuance, provide context, or offer additional insights, and is commonly used in writing, speech, and communication. Understanding parenthetical information can help readers or listeners better comprehend complex ideas or arguments.
adjectiveA parenthetical remark or phrase is a comment that is added to a sentence or passage, often in parentheses or dashes, to provide additional information or clarify a point.
- Added or supplementary, often in parentheses or as an aside.
- Having the nature of a parenthetical remark or phrase.
"The company's profits, parenthetical to its main business, come from investments."
"The new employee, parenthetical to the main team, will focus on marketing."
"The author's parenthetical comments throughout the book provide interesting insights."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of parenthetical
The word parenthetical originates from the Greek word 'parenthesis', meaning 'a putting in beside' or 'insertion'. This term is derived from 'para', meaning 'beside', and 'thesis', meaning 'putting'. The concept of parenthetical information has been present in language and literature for centuries, with ancient Greek and Roman writers using asides and supplementary comments to add depth and context to their works.
How parenthetical is actually used
The term is often used in linguistics, literature, and communication to describe asides or supplementary information.