Modifier errors
What Are Modifiers?
Modifiers are words, phrases, or clauses that describe or provide more information about other
parts of a sentence. They make writing clearer and more precise when placed correctly.
However, errors in placement can lead to confusion or unintended meanings.
There are three types of modifier errors: Misplaced modifiers, squinting modifiers and dangling
modifiers.
1. Misplaced Modifiers
A misplaced modifier is positioned too far from the word it is meant to describe, causing
confusion or an unintended meaning.
Example
a. The researchers only studied climate change in urban areas.
b. The researchers studied only climate change in urban areas.
What is the difference in meaning between the two sentences?
In sentence a, the modifier only modifies the verb studied, which means that the researchers did
not do anything else (e.g., they did not write a report).
The second sentence clarifies that they studied only climate change (and not other topics).
How to Fix Misplaced Modifiers:
Place the modifier next to the word it modifies to avoid confusion.
Rewrite the sentence to ensure clarity.
Pair work (10 minutes)
What is the difference in meaning between each of the following pairs of sentences?
1. a. He speaks only English.
b. He only speaks English.
1
2. a. The activists discussed policies to address social inequality in the conference room.
b. In the conference room, the activists discussed policies to address social inequality.
3. a. She served sandwiches to the children on paper plates.
b. She served the children sandwiches on paper plates.
4. a. They nearly interviewed every participant in the focus group.
b. They interviewed nearly every participant in the focus group.
NOTE: Remember to place the modifier next to the word it modifies to avoid confusion.
The next group will present on squinting modifiers.