Misplaced Modifiers
Common Core standard L.7.1.c
How modifiers can go wrong: misplaced
In English, modifiers are typically placed physically close to the word they modify. Sometimes, however, writers start out thinking one thing, then change their mind in the middle of the sentence. When that happens, sometimes modifiers get misplaced. This also is a source of great humor once you spot them.
Examples of misplaced modifiers
Bertha bought a new dress for the big dance, which unfortunately clashed with her jewelry. <- This makes it sound like the dance clashed with Bertha’s jewelry, rather than the dress.
The restaurant served a milkshake to the guest that was cold and sticky. <- This makes it sound like the guest is cold and sticky – not the milkshake.
How to fix misplaced modifiers
First, notice them! Take the time to reread your writing before you consider it finished. Once you find a misplaced modifier, move the modifier so that it’s placed next to the proper concept.
Bertha bought a new dress for the big dance, which unfortunately clashed with her jewelry. -> Bertha bought a new dress, which unfortunately clashed with her jewelry, for the big dance. ALTERNATIVELY: Bertha bought a new dress for the dance, but the dress unfortunately clashed with her jewelry.
The restaurant served a milkshake to the guest that was cold and sticky. -> The restaurant served a milkshake that was cold and sticky to the guest.