Modifiers A modifier is one or more words that describe other words. Two common errors involving these descriptive words are misplaced modifiers and dangling modifiers. When a modifier is in the wrong place, the reader may not know just what it is meant to describe.
Misplaced modifiers can lead to misunderstandings - some of which are unintentionally humorous.
To correct a misplaced modifier, place it as close as possible to what it is describing, so that its meaning will be clearly understood. The robber, carrying a gun, ran into the bank. Pay special attention to single-word modifiers, such as almost, only, and nearly. For their meaning to be correctly understood, they should be placed directly in front of the word they describe. Practice Sentences Rewrite each sentence, placing the underlined misplaced modifier so that the intended meaning is clear.