Proper sequencing is vital for clear and effective communication. One of the most frequent issues people face when constructing sentences is the misuse of modifiers. Misplaced modifiers can lead to confusion, distort the meaning of a sentence, and even create unintended humour.
In this post, we’ll explore common mistakes in sequencing, particularly misplaced modifiers, and offer tips on how to avoid them.
What Are Misplaced Modifiers?
A misplaced modifier occurs when a descriptive word or phrase is incorrectly positioned in a sentence, making it unclear what part of the sentence the modifier is supposed to describe.
For example:
- Incorrect: “She almost drove her kids to school every day.”
- Correct: “She drove her kids to school almost every day.”
In the incorrect version, the word “almost” is placed next to “drove,” implying she almost started driving but didn’t. However, the intent was to convey that she drove her kids to school nearly every day, which is corrected in the second version.
Common Types of Misplaced Modifiers
1. Adjective and Adverb Misplacement
Modifiers such as adjectives and adverbs must be positioned close to the word they describe. Misplacing them can dramatically change the meaning of the sentence.
- Incorrect: “The man walked his dog in a suit.”
- Correct: “The man in a suit walked his dog.”
In the incorrect version, it sounds as though the dog is wearing a suit, which was not the intended meaning.
2. Dangling Modifiers
A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that doesn’t logically modify any part of the sentence because the word it’s supposed to describe isn’t even present.
- Incorrect: “Running to catch the bus, my book fell in the puddle.”
- Correct: “Running to catch the bus, I dropped my book in the puddle.”
In the incorrect sentence, it sounds like the book is running to catch the bus! By fixing the sentence, it’s clear that the person running dropped the book.
3. Misplaced Phrases
When entire phrases are misplaced, they can confuse the reader about the intended action or description.
- Incorrect: “She found a pair of earrings digging through her jewellery box.”
- Correct: “Digging through her jewellery box, she found a pair of earrings.”
The first sentence gives the impression that the earrings were digging through the box, while the corrected sentence clarifies that the woman was doing the digging.
How to Avoid Misplaced Modifiers
1. Identify the Modifier’s Purpose
The first step in avoiding misplaced modifiers is understanding what the modifier is meant to describe. Is it an action, a person, or an object? Once you identify the modifier’s purpose, ensure it is placed directly next to the word or phrase it is modifying.
2. Use Sequencing Cards
Practising sentence construction and sequencing can help with understanding correct placement. Tools like sequencing cards can assist in visualising how sentences flow and ensuring that each word or phrase is placed logically. These cards help build awareness of sentence structure, particularly for learners who are visual or tactile.
3. Read Your Sentences Aloud
Reading sentences aloud can help you notice any awkward or confusing phrasing. Often, a misplaced modifier will sound strange when spoken, making it easier to identify and correct.
4. Check for Clarity
Once you’ve written a sentence, ask yourself: “Is this clear?” If there’s any chance that the sentence could be interpreted in multiple ways, revise it. Clarity is key to good communication, and proper sequencing ensures that your sentences convey the intended meaning.
5. Revise Dangling Modifiers
Look for sentences with introductory phrases and check if they have a subject to modify. If not, add one. A subjectless phrase at the start of a sentence is often a sign of a dangling modifier, so make sure there’s a noun or pronoun for the modifier to attach to.
Final Thoughts
Misplaced modifiers are a common error in both writing and speech, but they are also easy to fix with a little attention to sequencing. By being mindful of where you place your descriptive words and phrases, you can ensure that your sentences are clear, concise, and effective.
Remember: good sentence structure leads to good communication. Keep your modifiers close to the words they describe, and you’ll avoid the pitfalls of misplaced modifiers every time.