How Do You Spell PARENTHETICAL?
Pronunciation: [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkə͡l] (IPA) 
Correct spelling for the English word "parenthetical" is [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkə͡l], [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkəl], [p_ə_ɹ_ɪ_n_θ_ˈɛ_t_ɪ_k_əl] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
Pronunciation: [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkə͡l] (IPA)
Correct spelling for the English word "parenthetical" is [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkə͡l], [pəɹɪnθˈɛtɪkəl], [p_ə_ɹ_ɪ_n_θ_ˈɛ_t_ɪ_k_əl] (IPA phonetic alphabet).
The term "parenthetical" is derived from the noun "parenthesis," which denotes a punctuation mark ( ) used to set off words or phrases from the rest of a sentence, typically to provide additional information or clarification. As an adjective, "parenthetical" describes something that is pertaining or placed within parentheses, or something that is supplementary or incidental.
In the realm of grammar, a parenthetical phrase or clause is one that is not essential to the meaning of a sentence but offers an extra piece of information, providing deeper insight or adding clarification. These constructions are typically enclosed by parentheses, dashes, or commas. For instance, in the sentence "My dog, barking loudly, scared the mailman," the phrase "barking loudly" is parenthetical as it provides additional detail about the action of the dog.
Outside of grammar, the term "parenthetical" can be used more broadly to describe statements or remarks that are tangential or digressive, inserted into a conversation or text, yet not directly related to the main discussion. These parenthetical remarks might offer personal opinions, anecdotes, or background information, often contributing to the overall context or enhancing the speaker's point.
In essence, the word "parenthetical" refers to the inclusion of supplementary information, whether in grammar or general communication, which amplifies and enriches the understanding of a sentence, conversation, or text.
Expressed in a parenthesis, or pert. to it.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "parenthetical" derives from the Latin word "parenthesis", which comes from the Greek word "parénthesis". "Parénthesis" originally referred to a phrase or word placed in alongside another to add clarifying or explanatory information. This word is formed from the Greek prefix "para", meaning "beside" or "alongside", and "en", meaning "in". Over time, "parenthesis" became a term used in grammar to describe a set of parentheses, which are punctuation marks used to enclose additional or explanatory information within a sentence. From there, the adjective form "parenthetical" was derived to describe something that is inserted or added as a parenthesis.
