From Late Latin parenthesis, from Greek parenthesis, literally “a putting in beside,” formed from roots meaning “beside,” “in,” and “to put.” English first used it for inserted words in the 1540s, and later for the curved marks used to show them.
From Late Latin parenthesis, from Greek parenthesis, literally “a putting in beside,” formed from roots meaning “beside,” “in,” and “to put.” English first used it for inserted words in the 1540s, and later for the curved marks used to show them.
What does parenthesis mean?
Parenthesis can mean an inserted remark, one of the curved marks ( ), or a formal interruption in a sequence of events.
What is the plural of parenthesis?
The plural is parentheses.
Is parenthesis the same as parentheses?
No. Parenthesis is singular, while parentheses is plural and usually means the pair of marks ( ).
Can a parenthesis be set off without round brackets?
Yes. A parenthesis can be set off by commas or dashes when it is an inserted remark rather than the marks themselves.
What does in parentheses mean?
It means that information is placed inside the marks ( ), as in a date, citation, note, or grouped expression.
What is a parenthesis in mathematics?
It is one of the marks used to group part of an expression, often to show which operation should be handled first.
What is a parenthesis in programming?
It is a curved delimiter used in many languages for function calls, conditions, grouping, and other syntax.
Is parenthesis British or American?
American English commonly uses parenthesis and parentheses for the marks. British English often says bracket or round bracket.
Where does parenthesis come from?
It comes through Latin from Greek roots meaning “a putting in beside,” which fits the older sense of inserted words.