A dangling modifier is a phrase or clause that is not clearly and logically related to the word or words it modifies (i.e. is placed next to). Two notes about dangling modifiers: Unlike a misplaced modifier, a dangling modifier cannot be corrected by simply moving it to a different place in a sentence.
What is dangling modifier example?
Adjective Phrases as Dangling Modifiers
For example, "The big" doesn't make sense without telling what is big, which leaves "big" as a dangling modifier. However, "the big dog" is a complete phrase. Adjectives and adjective phrases can become dangling modifiers when they don't have anything to modify.
How do you know if it is a dangling modifier?
To quickly check if you have any dangling modifiers in your writing:
- Look at each sentence individually. Check each sentence for an introductory phrase that comes before the subject of the main clause.
- Determine what the introductory phrase modifies. ...
- Ensure that the modified noun is correct.