3 Questions
What is a misplaced modifier?
A word or phrase that is positioned in a sentence so that it is unclear which word it is meant to modify
What is the potential effect of a misplaced modifier in a sentence?
Creating confusion or ambiguity
Which of the following is an example of a misplaced modifier?
Running quickly, the bus was missed by Sarah.
Study Notes
Misplaced Modifiers
- A misplaced modifier is a word or phrase that is not clearly connected to the word it modifies, resulting in ambiguity or confusion in the sentence.
- The potential effect of a misplaced modifier is that it can change the meaning of the sentence, making it unclear or misleading.
Examples of Misplaced Modifiers
- Having been tired, the bed looked inviting. (Here, "having been tired" is a misplaced modifier, as it is not clearly connected to the subject "the bed". It should be connected to the person who is tired.)
- Having studied all night, the coffee was appreciated. (Here, "having studied all night" is a misplaced modifier, as it is not clearly connected to the subject "the coffee". It should be connected to the person who studied.)
- Note: A misplaced modifier can be a phrase or a clause, and it can be located at the beginning, middle, or end of a sentence.
Test your understanding of misplaced modifiers with this quiz! Learn about the definition of a misplaced modifier and its impact on sentence structure. Identify examples of misplaced modifiers to improve your grammar skills.
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