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“If you can't hear me, it's because I'm in parentheses.” quote by Steven Wright
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“If you can't hear me, it's because I'm in parentheses.”

Steven Wright

About This Quote

Source Stand‑up comedy routine, 1990s

The joke plays on the literal reading of “in parentheses” as a hidden, audible space.

In simple terms: Parentheses hide but don’t silence.

Key Takeaway

Pay attention to subtle cues.

Themes

humor language communication

Mood

playful witty

Type

comedic linguistic

When to use this quote

  • writing scripts
  • teaching grammar
  • public speaking
  • editing

Key Concepts

wordplay meta‑jokes

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “in parentheses” symbolize in conversation?
  • How does humor reveal hidden meanings?
A Different Perspective

Some may miss the pun if unfamiliar with the phrase.

2.4 out of 5 (8 ratings)

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