MODIFIERS Misplaced Modifiers Misplaced Modifiers A misplaced modifier

MODIFIERS Misplaced Modifiers

Misplaced Modifiers A misplaced modifier is a phrase, clause, or a word which modifies something that the author did not intend for it to modify Because it modifies the wrong word, the misplaced modifier changes the meaning of the sentence For example: I heard that there was a revolution on the evening news. The misplaced modifying phrase is “on the evening news. ” As it is written, it appears as though the revolution occurred on the evening news itself rather than reported on the news. Correct form: On the evening news, I heard that there was a revolution.

Difference between misplaced and dangling modifiers Both misplaced and dangling modifiers are incorrect; however, there is a main difference between the two: Misplaced modifiers has something to modify in the sentence, it is just modifying the wrong word Dangling modifiers do not have the necessary object in the sentence to modify; therefore, it appears dangling

Can you find the sentences with the misplaced modifier? A woman passed by, leading a springer spaniel in a long black dress. After trying the combination several times, the lock finally opened. He went to the library wearing a leather jacket. Typing slowly, the paper seemed endless. Running from New York to Florida , people ride the Silver Star.

Check your answers. MM=misplaced modifier, DM=dangling modifier A woman passed by, leading a springer spaniel in a long black dress. MM After trying the combination several times, the lock finally opened. DM He went to the library wearing a leather jacket. MM Typing slowly, the paper seemed endless. DM Running from New York to Florida , people ride the Silver Star. MM

Explanation of answers Although all sentences below use modifiers incorrectly, only the misplaced modifiers are explained. A woman passed by, leading a springer spaniel in a long black dress. MM It appears as though the dog is wearing the black dress, not the woman. He went to the library wearing a leather jacket. MM It appears as the library is wearing the leather jacket instead of “he. ” Correct: Wearing a long black dress, a woman passed by leading a springer spaniel. Correct: Wearing a leather jacket, he went to the library. Running from New York to Florida , people ride the Silver Star. MM It appears as though the people are physically running from New York to Florida rather than the train. Correct: Running from New York to Florida, the Silver Star provides a ride for many people.