What does parenthetically mean?
Parenthetically is an adverb meaning “in a parenthesis” or “as an aside.” It describes information that is inserted into a sentence to provide clarification, explanation, qualification, attribution, or another supplementary point, usually between parentheses. The main statement remains grammatically complete, so the additional material functions as a brief interruption. Typical examples include adding a date parenthetically after a historical reference or inserting a pronunciation parenthetically beside a technical term. The word is most common in academic, legal, editorial, scientific, and reference writing, where precision matters and concise qualifications are useful. It is more formal than everyday alternatives such as “by the way,” and its use signals that the added information is relevant but not central to the surrounding discussion.
adverbIn or as a parenthesis; by way of an aside or explanatory note, often set off by parentheses.
- In the manner of a parenthesis; as an aside or supplementary explanation, typically placed within parentheses.
"The editor added a brief note parenthetically to clarify the quotation."
"The guide notes parenthetically that the trail is difficult after heavy rain."
"She inserted the source, parenthetically, into the final paragraph."
Sometimes the most useful information is the part we tuck inside the brackets: parenthetically is the linguistic backstage pass for adding context without interrupting the main point.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of parenthetically
The adverb was formed in the 19th century from “parenthetical,” meaning “of or relating to parentheses,” with the adverbial suffix “-ly.” The adjective “parenthetical” comes through Medieval Latin from Greek “parenthesis,” a word meaning “a placing beside” and referring to a word or phrase placed within another sentence for explanation. The Latin form developed into English “parenthesis,” with the plural “parentheses,” while “parenthetical” preserves the adjective-forming suffix “-al.”
How parenthetically is actually used
Formal and technical in tone, though understandable in general writing. It is especially common in academic, legal, editorial, and reference material where a brief qualification needs to be attached to a main statement. It is less natural in informal speech than alternatives such as “by the way” or “in a parenthesis.”
Easily confused with parenthetically
“Parenthetically” is the adverb describing an aside or parenthetical addition, while “parenthetical” is the adjective or noun identifying the aside itself.