modifier errors

• are defined as words, phrases or clauses that enhance or enrich the meaning of a sentence. It can be an adjective or an adverb

  Misplaced Modifier

  • is placed away from the word it modifies. This results in a bizarre, humorous or vague sentences 

  Ex:

  Wrong: The class monitor accidentally fell off the chair cleaning the classroom

  Right: Cleaning the classroom, the class monitor accidentally fell off the chair
• How to fix MM?

  position the modifier immediately before or immediately after the word or phrase that it is modifying 

  Dangling Modifier

  does not seem to modify any word or phrase in the sentence

  Ex:

  Wrong: Casting the play, a fine group of actors was chosen carefully

  Right: Casting the play, the director carefully chose a fine group of actors

  How to fix DM?

  insert a new subject of the sentence

  • rearrange the sentence