parentheticals

Parentheticals are words, phrases, or clauses that interrupt a sentence to add extra information or an aside. They are typically marked by punctuation such as parentheses, commas, or em dashes, and the material inside is generally nonessential to the main clause. In formal terms, a parenthetical element functions as supplementary material that could be omitted without altering the core meaning of the sentence.

Common types include a noun phrase in parentheses, a clarifying clause, or a whole sentence used as an aside. Examples: She arrived late (due to the train delay). The committee members, three professors and two students, approved the proposal. He finally answered, after a long pause. Frankly, I doubt that plan will work.

Usage and style: Limit the use of parentheticals to maintain readability. When using parentheses, the sentence should still be understandable if the material is removed. If the parenthetical is a complete sentence, some guides require capitalization and ending punctuation inside the parentheses; others place the punctuation outside. Alternative devices such as commas or em dashes can convey emphasis or tone, but overuse can disrupt flow.