How to Fix a Dangling Modifier

 

Dangling modifiers are a frequent stumbling block in English writing, causing confusion and ambiguity. When a modifier "dangles," it lacks a clear word to describe, leading readers to misinterpret the sentence’s meaning. The good news is that dangling modifiers can be fixed with a few straightforward techniques. This article explores practical methods to identify and correct dangling modifiers, improving clarity and precision in your writing.

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What Is a Dangling Modifier?

To quickly recap, a dangling modifier is a descriptive phrase or word that does not clearly attach to the word it is supposed to modify. This often happens when the subject of the sentence is missing or incorrectly placed.

Example of a dangling modifier:
Running quickly, the finish line was crossed.
(The phrase “running quickly” seems to modify “the finish line,” which cannot run.)

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Why Is Fixing Dangling Modifiers Important?

Dangling modifiers can confuse readers and distort your intended meaning. Fixing them ensures that your writing is clear, professional, and easy to understand, which is essential in academic, business, and everyday communication.

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How to Fix a Dangling Modifier

1. Add the Missing Subject

One of the most straightforward ways to fix a dangling modifier is by adding the missing subject—the person or thing performing the action described in the modifier.

Example:

• Dangling: After finishing the assignment, the computer was shut down.

• Fixed: After finishing the assignment, she shut down the computer.

By inserting “she,” the subject now clearly performs the action, fixing the dangling modifier.

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2. Place the Modifier Next to the Correct Subject

Sometimes, simply rearranging the sentence to position the modifier immediately before or after the word it describes can fix the problem.

Example:

• Dangling: To improve test scores, the exam was taken again.

• Fixed: To improve test scores, the students took the exam again.

By moving the subject closer to the modifier, the sentence becomes logical and clear.

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3. Rewrite the Sentence Completely

If the sentence remains awkward after adding the subject or moving phrases, consider rewriting the sentence for clarity.

Example:

• Dangling: Walking through the park, the flowers were beautiful.

• Fixed: Walking through the park, I noticed the beautiful flowers.

Or rewrite more simply: The flowers in the park were beautiful.

This approach ensures the modifier is connected to the right subject and makes the sentence easy to understand.

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4. Use Passive or Active Voice Appropriately

Sometimes changing the voice of the sentence can clarify who performs the action, thus fixing the dangling modifier.

Example:

• Dangling: To complete the project on time, the work was hurried.

• Fixed (active voice): To complete the project on time, the team hurried the work.

• Fixed (passive voice): The work was hurried to complete the project on time.

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5. Remove the Modifier if It Causes Confusion

In some cases, the modifier may not add important information or can be simplified. Removing or replacing it might be the best option.

Example:

• Dangling: Driving down the street, the rain started pouring.

• Fixed by removal: The rain started pouring while I was driving down the street.

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Common Types of Dangling Modifiers and How to Fix Them

Participial Phrases (ending in -ing or -ed)

Example:

• Dangling: Hoping to win the race, the finish line was crossed quickly.

• Fixed: Hoping to win the race, the runner crossed the finish line quickly.

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Infinitive Phrases (to + verb)

Example:

• Dangling: To catch the bus, the door was locked.

• Fixed: To catch the bus, she locked the door.

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Prepositional Phrases

Example:

• Dangling: After completing the training, the certificate was issued.

• Fixed: After completing the training, the student received the certificate.

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Tips to Avoid Dangling Modifiers in Your Writing

1. Identify the subject performing the action in any introductory phrase or clause.

2. Make sure the subject follows immediately after the introductory phrase.

3. Read your sentences aloud to check for awkwardness or confusion.

4. Use clear and simple sentence structures whenever possible.

5. Ask yourself: “Who is doing this action?” and ensure that person or thing is the subject of the sentence.

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Practice Examples

Try fixing the dangling modifiers in the following sentences:

1. While reading the book, the phone rang.

2. After finishing the homework, the TV was turned on.

3. To prepare for the trip, the bags were packed.

4. Walking along the river, the birds were singing.

5. Running late, the keys were nowhere to be found.

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Answers

1. While I was reading the book, the phone rang.

2. After finishing the homework, she turned on the TV.

3. To prepare for the trip, we packed the bags.

4. Walking along the river, I heard the birds singing.

5. Running late, I couldn’t find the keys.

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Conclusion

Fixing dangling modifiers is an essential skill for clear and professional writing. By ensuring modifiers have a clear subject to describe, rearranging sentences, or rewriting them when necessary, you can eliminate ambiguity and improve your readers’ understanding.

When you write, always check if your modifiers clearly refer to the intended word or subject. If not, apply the methods outlined above to fix the sentence. Clear communication not only enhances your writing but also builds your credibility as a writer.