Use of parenthesis

Also called round brackets, the parethesis are used to separate a strong or weak interruption. In this case we should use parenthesis instead of dashes or braketing commas. We should however pay attention to the way we use parenthesis and make sure we don't overcrowd our text with sentences inside sentences that will make it confusing.

For this study I used Larry Trask's University of Essex website.

• Parenthesis
  
  
  1. Strong or weak interruptions
     Parenthesis are used to set up a strong or weak interruption and they're always used in pairs. In the case of a strong interruption we can also use dashes or braketing commas, however, it is preferred the use of parethesis when that interruption is "aside" the context of the sentence.
     Example: Princess Catherine (another Princess Diana some say) is followed by the Press wherever she goes.
     
     
  2. Explain an unfamiliar term
     You can also use parenthesis to separate a small interruption that provides information or explanation to an unfamiliar term.
     Example: The Intituto de Meteorologia (Institute of Meteorology) says more events like this are expected.
     
     
  3. Numerals or letters in a enumeration
     You used parenthesis to enclose numerals or letters in a enumeration included in the body of the text.
     Example: To apply for this course you need (1) all the forms properly filled, (2) a copy of your passport or drivers licence, (3) pay $350 enrolment fee.
     
  
  
  NOTE: You should not overdo prenthesis as it may get your sentece crowded and confusing. Always review your text to make sure it is punctuated correctly.

Kangas

Source:University of Essex