parenthetical
/pɝɛnˈθɛtɪkəɫ/
an inserted phrase that adds information without changing the main sentence
parenthetical in a sentence
“The CEO (who had just arrived) immediately took charge.”
Origin of parenthetical
Greek parentithenai (to put in beside)
Related Words
appositive
a noun phrase that renames or explains another noun
semicolon
joins independent clauses without a conjunction; signals close relationship
em dash
sets off parenthetical content with emphasis—like this—or signals a break
en dash
indicates ranges or connections between items
Oxford comma
the comma before 'and' in a list of three or more
colon
introduces what follows—a list, explanation, or elaboration