A dangling modifier does not sensibly modify anything in its sentence.
PASSING THE BUILDING, the vandalism was clearly visible( the modifying phrase which is capitalised seems to describe vandalism. The writer has not said who was passing the building or who saw the vandalism).
Dangling modifiers occur most often when certain kinds of modifying word groups precede the main clause of the sentence. To identify and revise dangling modifiers, do the following:
1. If the modifier lacks a subject of its own(e.g., running away), identify what it describes.
2. Verify that what the modifier describes is the subject of the main clause. If it is not, the modifier is probably dangling.
3. Revise a dangling modifier by: a. Recasting it with a subject of its own. b. Changing the subject of the main clause.
Being crowded in the car, the trip was uncomfortable(dangling).
Being crowded in the car, we were uncomfortable(revised).
After unlocking the door, the cat refused to go out(dangling).
After I had unlocked the door, the cat refused to go out(revised).
Have a great week!
3 Comments
Hmmmm……English for the week getting more technical……Tnk u sir!Av a grt week too
Wow, grammar ain’t easy. Lol. Thanks for taking your time in explaining all these dangling and misplaced modifiers that we make use of.
I’m learning more, this is a great ‘class’.