Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers

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 confusion.

Front

Example of a dangling modifier: 'At barely five years old, my family left the Philippines.'

Back

This sentence suggests that 'my family' was five years old, which is incorrect.

Front

What is a misplaced modifier?

Back

A misplaced modifier is a word or phrase that is not placed correctly in a sentence, leading to ambiguity or confusion.

Front

Example of a misplaced modifier: 'Falling off the table, Liam reached for the jar of jam.'

Back

This suggests that 'Liam' fell off the table, which may not be the intended meaning.

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What is a correct sentence?

Back

A correct sentence is one that is grammatically accurate and conveys a clear meaning.

Front

Example of a correct sentence: 'Stranded at the airport, the travelers stared at the blizzard.'

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This sentence clearly indicates that the travelers are stranded.

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How can you identify a dangling modifier?

Back

Look for phrases that do not clearly connect to the subject of the sentence.

Front

How can you identify a misplaced modifier?

Back

Check if the modifier is placed next to the word it is supposed to modify.

Front

What is the effect of a dangling modifier on a sentence?

Back

It can create confusion or an unintended meaning.

Front

What is the effect of a misplaced modifier on a sentence?

Back

It can lead to ambiguity and misinterpretation of the sentence.