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Dangling and Misplaced Modifiers Name ______________________
Dangling and misplaced modifiers can be amusing. However, a misleading sentence such as A
wart appeared on my left hand that I want removed can also create awkward prose. A dangling
modifier describes or limits a word or words that are missing from the sentence. A misplaced
modifier occurs when the word or phrase it describes is not close enough to be clear. In both
instances, the solution is to move the modifier closer to the word(s) it describes or limits.
Dangling modifier: While searching the Web, a virus infiltrated my computer.
Revision: While searching the Web, I discovered that a virus had infiltrated
Try this trick for detecting and remedying dangling modifiers. Ask the question who or what? after
an introductory phrase. The words immediately following should tell the reader who or what is
performing the action.
Dangling modifier: After working ten hours, the report was finally completed.
Revision: After working ten hours, we finally completed the report.
It's unimportant to distinguish dangling modifiers (some of which are called dangling participles)
from misplaced modifiers. More important is to recognize a modification problem and repair it.
The following exercise provides typical dangling and misplaced modifiers:
1. After leaving the office, Melissa's car would not start.
7. The attorney said his client was returning from the swimming pool when, without warning, she
was bitten by a snake on her right foot.
8. The Park Hotel is just one of the Art Deco buildings you can see strolling about South Beach.
9. Firemen rescued a dog from a car that had a broken leg.
13. Former hostage Terry Waite talked about his five years in Beirut with Barbara Walters.
14. While driving to work, the proposal deadline worried me intensely.
15. To find a good job, diligence and perseverance are needed
Proposed Revisions
We suggest these revisions, but others are also possible.
1. After leaving the office, Melissa discovered that her car would not start.
moved our administrative offices.
7. The attorney said his client was returning from the swimming pool, when, without warning, she
was bitten on her right foot by a snake.
8. The Park Hotel is just one of the Art Deco buildings you can see as you stroll about South
Beach.
