What's a Parenthetical Clause?

In rhetoric, a parenthesis or parenthetical phrase is an explanatory or qualifying word, clause, or sentence inserted into a passage. The parenthesis could be left out and still form grammatically correct text. Parentheses are usually marked off by round or square brackets, dashes, or commas.

What is a parenthetical example?

1. The definition of parenthetical is enclosed in parenthesis. An example of a parenthetical phrase is the last part of the sentence: "I bought ice cream last night (and it was really good!)."

What is a parenthetical in writing?

In essence, a parenthetical is just a phrase that is not essential to the rest of the sentence. ... When used correctly, a parenthetical can add crucial new information to a sentence without disrupting the flow. Below are a few examples of sentences with parenthetical phrases.

Sarah Jenkins

Sarah Jenkins

Senior Technology Editor & AI Specialist

Sarah Jenkins is a veteran tech journalist with over 12 years of experience covering artificial intelligence, mobile innovations, and digital ethics. Her insights have appeared in leading technology publications worldwide.