What is this operation called when there is no "*" or "x" to tell you it is multiplication?
Where are these precedence rules given that you are following? I have cited the standard, accepted rules. As many others have. There is no exception listed for "multiplication without an explicit symbol." Tell us where this rule is.
Hmmm, I wonder where the shortcut nomenclature of 2(x) is the same as 2 times x came from and how long ago? It has the similar look of a function: f(x) = 2x. You've got other functions using the same format cos(x), log(x), etc. with defined meanings for cos, log, etc. This has been an interesting thread to read.
BTW.. is there a ping list I can be added to? Good brain exercise... I need it since I am even forgetting my native tongue (American English)... ;)