What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parenthesis
Example
She mentioned her favorite book (Pride and Prejudice) during the conversation. [parenthesis: noun]
Example
The sentence needs a parenthesis to clarify the meaning. [parenthesis: singular]
parentheses
Example
Please add parentheses around the phrase to set it off from the rest of the sentence. [parentheses: noun]
Example
The writer used too many parentheses in the article, making it hard to follow. [parentheses: plural]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Parentheses is more commonly used than parenthesis in formal writing, such as academic papers, legal documents, and technical manuals. However, parenthesis is more common in informal writing, such as personal emails, social media posts, and casual blogs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parenthesis and parentheses?
Parentheses is considered more formal than parenthesis. It is commonly used in academic writing, technical writing, and other formal contexts where precision and clarity are important.
