When should you use a round bracket?

When should you use a round bracket?

Round brackets, also known as parentheses, are used in writing for various purposes. Here are some instances when you should use round brackets:

1. To enclose additional information or explanations within a sentence that is not essential to the main point. Example: The concert (which was held in a large stadium) was a huge success.

2. To indicate an abbreviation or acronym. Example: The United Nations (UN) was established in 1945.

3. To show alternative or optional elements in a sentence. Example: The book is available in different formats (hardcover, paperback, and e-book).

4. To enclose numbers or letters in a list or series. Example: Please bring the following items: (1) pen, (2) notebook, and (3) calculator.

5. To separate a phrase or clause that interrupts the flow of a sentence. Example: The weather, despite the forecast, remained sunny throughout the day.

It is important to use round brackets sparingly and ensure that the information enclosed within them does not disrupt the overall clarity and coherence of the sentence.