Question

What are parentheses used to set off? Select all that apply.

incidental remarks
appositives
numbers or letters in a series of items
the main idea

Answer 1

- Incidental remarks — yes
- Appositives — yes (when they're nonessential/explanatory)
- Numbers or letters in a series of items — yes

Not: the main idea (parentheses set off secondary or parenthetical material, not the main idea).