Don’t Let ‘Em Dangle: Phrases, Modifiers And References

Misplaced modifiers, dangling phrases and unclear references – these are mistakes of placement and they can have a disastrous or odd effect on sentences and meaning. The goal is to keep the word or words that modify or directly affect the meaning of other words close together.

(i) Dangling phrases usually begin a sentence; what they modify is omitted.

Dangling Phrase Example: Checking the lunchroom, the sales manager was found.

Correct: Checking the lunchroom, security found the sales manager.

(ii) Misplaced modifier – Each modifier needs to be placed next to, or as close as possible to, that which it is modifying.

Misplaced Modified Example: Here are some suggestions for handling obscene complaints from corporate headquarters. (Are the obscene complaints from corporate headquarters?)

Correct: Corporate headquarters offers the following suggestions for handling obscene phone calls.

Misplaced Modifier: After a lengthy period of illness, Corporate Canada is saddened to announce the passing of John Smith.

Correct: Corporate Canada is saddened to announce the passing of John Smith after a lengthy period of illness.

Misplaced Modifier: While only six years old, Corporate Canada’s Kevin Mitchell argues that Botox-Beauty is still a breakthrough product in the market.

Correct: Corporate Canada’s Kevin Mitchell argues that Botox-Beauty, while only six years old, is still a breakthrough product in the market.

(iii) Unclear references – the reader should not have to guess or speculate on the meaning of sentences and phrases.

Unclear Reference Example: Jim said yesterday his car was stolen (did it happen yesterday or did he talk about it yesterday?)

Correct: Jim said his car was stolen yesterday.

Unclear Reference: Having been told he was competent and effective, the executive promoted the man (who was told he was competent and effective – the executive or the man?)

Correct: Having told the man he was competent and effective, the executive promoted him.

 

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