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: 'Barking with excitement, Maria was walking her dog.' What is wrong with this sentence?

Back

The modifier 'Barking with excitement' is misplaced, making it seem like Maria is barking.

Front

Correct the misplaced modifier: 'He rode his bike with a flat tire to the party.'

Back

The sentence is correct as it is; it clearly states he rode his bike that had a flat tire.

Front

Example of a dangling modifier: 'While eating his lunch, the homework was turned in by David.' What is wrong with this sentence?

Back

The modifier 'While eating his lunch' is dangling because it incorrectly suggests that the homework was eating lunch.

Front

Correct the dangling modifier: 'While eating his lunch, David turned in his homework.'

Back

The sentence is correct; it clearly states that David was eating lunch while he turned in his homework.

Front

What is the main purpose of avoiding misplaced and dangling modifiers?

Back

The main purpose is to ensure clarity and precision in writing, making it easier for readers to understand the intended meaning.

Front

Identify the correct sentence: 'Carefully assembled with thread and wire, Jose admired the artwork.' Why is it correct?

Back

This sentence is correct because the modifier clearly describes the artwork, not Jose.

Front

Identify the correct sentence: 'Darcy ate her ice cream cone that was melting in the hot sun.' Why is it correct?

Back

This sentence is correct because it clearly states that the ice cream cone was melting, not Darcy.

Front

What should you do if a modifier is misplaced?

Back

Rearrange the sentence so that the modifier is placed next to the word it is intended to modify.