Misplaced and Dangling Modifiers ACT Practice

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 or describes, 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

How can you identify a misplaced modifier in a sentence?

Back

Look for modifiers that are not placed next to the word they are supposed to modify, which can lead to confusion about what is being described.

Front

What is the correct placement of modifiers in a sentence?

Back

Modifiers should be placed as close as possible to the words they modify to avoid confusion and ensure clarity.

Front

Provide an example of a sentence with a misplaced modifier.

Back

"She saw the dog running down the street with a broken leg." (It sounds like the dog has a broken leg, not the person.)

Front

Provide an example of a sentence with a dangling modifier.

Back

"After reading the book, the movie was disappointing." (It sounds like the movie read the book.)

Front

What is the effect of using a dangling modifier in writing?

Back

It can create confusion and mislead the reader about who or what is being described.

Front

How can you correct a dangling modifier?

Back

Rephrase the sentence to clearly indicate the subject that the modifier is intended to describe.

Front

What role do commas play in modifying phrases?

Back

Commas can help clarify the meaning of modifying phrases by separating them from the main clause, especially when they are introductory.

Front

What is an example of a sentence that correctly uses a modifier?

Back

"Running quickly, the athlete crossed the finish line first." (The modifier 'running quickly' clearly describes 'the athlete.')