parenthetically

Parenthetically is an adverb used to describe a remark or comment that is inserted into a sentence as an aside. Such asides are typically set off from the main text by parentheses, but may also appear with dashes or commas, depending on style and emphasis.

Etymology: The word derives from the adjective parenthetical, which itself comes from the noun parenthesis, from Greek parénthesis. The adverb form is created by adding the suffix -ly.

Usage and function: In prose, material described as parenthetical provides supplementary information, glosses, or caveats without being essential to the main point. It can convey nuance, irony, or a lighter tone, and is often used for asides or clarifications.

Style notes: In formal writing, parenthetical remarks should be used sparingly to avoid disrupting readability. Overuse can fragment the flow of a sentence, make the prose feel digressive, or blur the main argument. When used, the punctuation and placement should clearly indicate that the aside is nonessential.

Examples:

- The researcher, parenthetically, noted that the sample size was small.

- The city council approved the ordinance, parenthetically, during the late-night meeting.

- The results were inconclusive (an issue the report highlights), though further work is planned.

See also: Related terms include parenthetical, parenthesis, and parenthetical citation, all of which describe ways of inserting material into writing that is not part of the core clause. In practice, parenthetically flagged material is one of several devices writers use to manage asides and supplementary information.