Parentheses

Front

What are parentheses?

Back

Parentheses are punctuation marks used to enclose information that is not essential to the main point of a sentence. They are represented by the symbols ( ).

Front

When should you use parentheses?

Back

Use parentheses to add extra information, clarify a point, or provide an example without interrupting the main flow of the sentence.

Front

What is an example of using parentheses correctly?

Back

I visited Paris (the capital of France) last summer.

Front

Can parentheses be used in the middle of a sentence?

Back

Yes, parentheses can be used in the middle of a sentence to add additional information.

Front

What is the difference between parentheses and brackets?

Back

Parentheses ( ) are used for additional information, while brackets [ ] are often used to clarify or add information within quoted text.

Front

What is a common mistake when using parentheses?

Back

A common mistake is placing punctuation marks outside of the parentheses when the enclosed information is a complete sentence.

Front

How do parentheses affect the meaning of a sentence?

Back

Parentheses can change the meaning by adding context or clarification without altering the main message.

Front

What is an example of incorrect use of parentheses?

Back

I like apples (and oranges. This is incorrect because the sentence is incomplete without the closing parenthesis.

Front

What should you avoid when using parentheses?

Back

Avoid overusing parentheses, as they can make sentences confusing and hard to read.

Front

How do you read a sentence with parentheses?

Back

Read the sentence normally, but pause briefly when you reach the parentheses to include the additional information.