parenthetically speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "parenthetically speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to add a side comment or clarification that is not the main point of your discussion. Example: "The project deadline is approaching quickly, parenthetically speaking, we should consider extending the timeline if necessary."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The description is strewn with parenthetical wonders: "(Farmers always spoke loudly – from working in wide fields in windy weather)".

The Guardian - Books

Tall, thin and diffident around the edges, he speaks at twice normal speed, often inserting parenthetical commentary on his thoughts as he gallops ahead.

The Economist

Speak, speak".

The New Yorker

(The hundred and six million dollars Clinton has received in speaking fees is mentioned only parenthetically).

The New Yorker

(The hundred and six million dollars Clinton has received in speaking fees is mentioned only parenthetically). There is so much there.

The New Yorker

with much consistency, given parenthetically).

Harvard University

Parenthetically, the search was long and tedious.

The New York Times - Magazine

Blake also mentions this parenthetically in his piece.

The Washington Post

(Lennig sniffs parenthetically that "Stroheim was hardly a prize scholar").

The New York Times - Books

The script reads, parenthetically, "Notes Toward a Definition of Tragedy".

The New York Times

"We're not done yet," a new message read, parenthetically.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "parenthetically speaking" to introduce a brief clarification or additional thought that isn't crucial to the main argument but provides context or insight. It works best when the aside is genuinely related to the topic at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "parenthetically speaking" too frequently, as it can disrupt the flow of your writing and make it seem disjointed. Reserve it for truly relevant and concise asides.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "parenthetically speaking" functions as an adverbial phrase. It serves to introduce an aside or a qualifying remark, indicating that the following statement is a supplementary thought not essential to the main argument. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Academia

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "parenthetically speaking" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase used to introduce asides or supplementary information. Ludwig AI confirms this, but its frequency is rare, making it best suited for contexts where a slightly formal tone is appropriate. Alternatives like "as a side note" or "in passing" offer simpler ways to achieve a similar effect. When using "parenthetically speaking", ensure it enhances understanding without disrupting the flow of writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as an aside

This is a more formal and direct synonym.

as a side note

This alternative is a more direct and commonly used way to introduce an aside.

in passing

This suggests a brief or incidental mention of something.

in parenthesis

This literally refers to adding information within parentheses, metaphorically implying a side comment.

by the way

This phrase is a more casual way to introduce a related but not essential point.

just to add

This phrase is used to provide extra information concisely.

incidentally

This emphasizes the accidental or coincidental nature of the additional information.

on a separate note

This signals a shift to a related but distinct point.

tangentially speaking

This indicates that the comment is only loosely related to the main topic.

if I may add

This is a polite way to insert an additional comment or observation.

FAQs

How can I use "parenthetically speaking" in a sentence?

You can use "parenthetically speaking" to introduce a side comment or clarification, for example: "The project deadline is approaching quickly, parenthetically speaking, we should consider extending the timeline if necessary."

What are some alternatives to "parenthetically speaking"?

Some alternatives include "as a side note", "in passing", or "by the way", depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "parenthetically speaking" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "parenthetically speaking" when you want to add a brief clarification, additional information, or a related thought that isn't essential to the main point but enhances understanding.

Is "parenthetically speaking" a formal or informal phrase?

"Parenthetically speaking" is generally considered a somewhat formal phrase. In more casual contexts, alternatives like "by the way" or "as a side note" might be more suitable.