help with this notation (4)

[xiamxdisasterx]

usually when i look up tabs they appear on a string

4----(4)
4----(4)
3----(3)

i think thats how it goes. its usually different but im just making an example. anyhelp?-

[sk8orDiENuN213]

I may be wrong but I think that means the notes in () are tied to the ones before it. Correct me if i'm wrong.

[AMP]

a note in (), in my experience has meant several different things. What it means in "official tablature" I am not sure as I have yet to have found an "official" tab guide.

However, I have seen () used in the following ways depending on the piece you are playing.

(3)b4 as a prebend

3---(3) as a "Let Ring" OR as a "tie" depending on the song.

and I have seen (3) as a "Ghost note".