1. MISPLACED AND DANGLING MODIFIERS

2. Misplaced Modifiers  Misplaced Modifiers. A phrase or a clause that acts as an adjective or adverb should be placed close to the word it modifies. Otherwise, the meaning of the sentence may be unclear. A modifier placed too far away from the word it modifies is called a misplaced modifier. Because they are misplaced, such phrases and clauses seem to modify the wrong word in a sentence.

3. Misplaced Modifiers (Example  Nancy marched in the parade with a smile on her face.  With a smile on her face, Nancy marched in the parade

4. Dangling Modifiers  Dangling Modifiers. A modifier placed without a word to modify is called a dangling modifier. Because it is not clear what such phrases and clauses seem to modify, the meaning becomes unclear and confusing.

5. Dangling Modifiers (Example)  Playing the trumpet, the parade was enjoyable  Playing the trumpet, Elizabeth enjoyed the parade.