Misplacing and dangling modifiers are common errors that can make sentences confusing or unintentionally humorous. Look at each term's meaning and how to correct these errors. The following quick guide serves as an excellent resource, offering practical tips and strategies for correction. If you've reviewed this quick guide and are just looking for examples, please scroll down.
A misplaced modifier is a word, phrase, or clause improperly separated from the word it modifies or describes. Because of the separation, the sentence may convey an unintended meaning.
Example of Misplaced Modifier:
"Running rapidly, the finish line seemed never to arrive for the runner."
In this sentence, it sounds like the finish line is running, which is not possible. The modifier "Running rapidly" describes the runner, not the finish line.
Corrected:
"Running rapidly, the runner felt the finish line seemed never to arrive."
A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence. A dangling modifier cannot logically describe the subject in the sentence because it either doesn’t appear or appears in the wrong place, making the sentence confusing or illogical.
Example of Dangling Modifier:
"Having finished the assignment, the TV was turned on."
This sentence sounds like the TV completed the assignment, which is impossible. The sentence does not clearly state who finished the assignment.
Corrected:
"Having finished the assignment, she turned on the TV."
