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Is my usage of parenthetical phrase correct int the following sentence? I think as it can be removed from the sentence, can be placed in parenthesizes or commas.

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  • It is as you say. Why do you think it might be wrong?
    – user3169
    Jul 7, 2015 at 18:03
  • @user3169 I didn't learn it or read something about it, sometimes I write some sentences that are the result of my readings (intuition), then I was doubtful if I am right or not.
    – Ahmad
    Jul 7, 2015 at 18:11
  • @user3169 what is the grammar? why we use verb with "ing", what is the subject of this verb?
    – Ahmad
    Jul 7, 2015 at 18:14

2 Answers 2

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Although including looks like a verb form, it's actually a preposition in your sentence. Here's how the Longman Dictionary of Contemporary English defines this particular preposition:

including (preposition)

used to introduce something or someone that is part of a larger group or amount you have just mentioned [≠ excluding]:

  • The price is £25.50, including postage and packing.
  • You'll need a variety of skills, including leadership and negotiating.

We can tell it's a preposition and not a verb in this sentence because it doesn't predicate on anything. In other words, it has no subject. And that's okay—preposition phrases can function as adjuncts without predicating on anything, and that's exactly what's going on in your sentence.

So your sentence is fine.

For more information about prepositions derived from participial verb forms such as including and counting, please see The Cambridge Grammar of the English Language, starting on page 610.

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Yes, it is correct usage.

It is a free modifier.

  1. Free modifier: A free modifier is an unspecialized interruption of additional information: “I stood up and, brushing off my pants, continued along my way.”

You're just commenting extra information/clarification in.

This article looks like it could be a good resource for future reference on parenthetical phrases.

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  • what is the grammar? why we use verb with "ing", what is the subject of this verb?
    – Ahmad
    Jul 7, 2015 at 18:15

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