Flashcard: Misplaced and Dangling Modifiers

Front

What is a misplaced modifier?

Back

A misplaced modifier is a word, phrase, or clause that is improperly separated from the word it modifies, leading to confusion or ambiguity.

Front

What is a dangling modifier?

Back

A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence, often leading to unclear or illogical sentences.

Front

Example of a misplaced modifier: 'She saw the dog running down the street with a broken leg.' What is wrong with this sentence?

Back

The sentence suggests that the dog has a broken leg, rather than the dog running down the street.

Front

Correct the misplaced modifier: 'The teacher gave a lecture to the students on the importance of studying hard.'

Back

The teacher gave a lecture on the importance of studying hard to the students.

Front

Example of a dangling modifier: 'After reading the book, the movie was disappointing.' What is wrong with this sentence?

Back

The sentence suggests that the movie read the book, which is illogical.

Front

Correct the dangling modifier: 'After reading the book, I found the movie disappointing.'

Back

This revision clarifies that 'I' read the book.

Front

What is the purpose of modifiers in a sentence?

Back

Modifiers provide additional information about a noun or verb, helping to clarify or enhance the meaning of the sentence.

Front

Identify the correct sentence: 'Hanging on the wall, Josie loved the new painting.' or 'Josie loved the new painting hanging on the wall.'

Back

'Josie loved the new painting hanging on the wall.' is correct because it clearly indicates what Josie loved.

Front

What is the effect of using dangling modifiers in writing?

Back

Dangling modifiers can create confusion and misinterpretation, making the writing unclear.

Front

How can you avoid misplaced modifiers?

Back

Ensure that modifiers are placed next to the words they modify to avoid confusion.