parenthetical modifiers
[pə-ˈren-thə-ti-kəl ˈmä-də-ˌfī-ərz]
nounpl: parenthetical modifiers
modificadores parentéticos
1. Words or phrases set off by parentheses, dashes, or commas that provide additional information about a noun or other sentence element without being essential to the main clause
The professor, who had taught for thirty years, explained the concept clearly.
A professora, que havia ensinado por trinta anos, explicou o conceito claramente.
2. Modifying elements that interrupt the main flow of a sentence to add clarifying or supplementary details
My brother—the one who lives in Boston—called yesterday.
Meu irmão—aquele que mora em Boston—telefonou ontem.
3. Adjectives, adverbs, or phrases enclosed in parentheses or set apart by punctuation that modify nearby words
The report (quite detailed) covered all aspects of the project.
O relatório (bem detalhado) cobriu todos os aspectos do projeto.
Parenthetical modifiers are a fundamental concept in English grammar instruction both in Brazil and the United States. In Brazilian Portuguese education, they are typically taught as part of syntax and punctuation rules. The concept emphasizes clarity and proper punctuation usage, which is heavily tested in standardized exams like ENEM in Brazil. In American English instruction, proper handling of parenthetical modifiers is considered essential for clear, professional writing in academic and business contexts.
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