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Name_________________________________________
Date_____________________
PARENTHETICAL EXPRESSIONS
We often use an expression that interrupts the smooth flow of a sentence. We call this a parenthetical expression because it is a side remark, something that could be placed in parentheses: (Of course) I want to loan you the money. In speaking we drop our voices and pause both before and after the interrupter in order to set it apart from the main idea. In writing we use commas to do this.
This horse, for example, is a pinto.
The interrupting expression is set off with comma.
Notice that you can leave out the interrupter and still have a good sentence left.
This horse is a pinto.
Below is a list of common interrupters.
| as you know |
of course |
by the way |
on the other hand |
| nevertheless |
it seems |
if possible |
as a matter of fact |
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In the sentences below, put commas around the interrupter.
- Starfish by the way can grow new arms.
- The Easter parade as you know will start promptly at 10:00 A.M.
- A ski jacket of course will keep you warm even in the winter snow.
- Belle on the other hand has been married four times.
- White shoes nevertheless should be worn only after Memorial Day and before Labor Day.
- Cellular phones if possible should never be allowed to ring in a restaurant, a classroom, or a church.
- Even though women have more rights than ever before, housekeeping it seems is still primarily the wife's responsibility.
- As a matter of fact most husbands look upon kitchen duty as if they are helping out their wife.
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