A modifier’s position in a sentence generally tells the reader what word the modifier qualifies.

E4-a Place a word, phrase, or clause next to or close to the word that it modifies.

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If a modifier is too far away from the word it modifies, a reader may assume that it modifies another word closer to it. As a result, a misplaced modifier can create confusion, ambiguity, or even unintended humor.

Move a modifier closer to the word it modifies.

Rewrite to clarify the sentence.

E4-b Place a modifier so that it qualifies the meaning of a particular word in the sentence instead of dangling.

A phrase that does not modify a specific word is called a dangling modifier. A dangling modifier usually occurs at the beginning of a sentence and is likely to be a participial phrase or a prepositional phrase.

Place a word or phrase being modified immediately after the modifying phrase.

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Change the modifying phrase into a dependent clause.

Unlike a phrase, a clause includes both a subject and a predicate. By changing a phrase to a clause, you can correct a dangling modifier by supplying the information or connection that is missing. Be sure to rewrite so that both the subject and the predicate are clearly stated and the clause fits the rest of the sentence.

E4-c Place a limiting modifier just before the word it modifies.

A limiting modifier can create confusion or ambiguity when it is misplaced because it could modify several words in the same sentence.

When even precedes say in the example above, the sentence suggests that the experts are “even saying,” not that the date will be even sooner.

E4-d Keep the two parts of an infinitive together.

When other words follow the to, they “split” the infinitive, separating to from the base form of the verb. These other words can usually be moved elsewhere in the sentence. Be especially alert to limiting modifiers that split infinitives. (See also E4-c.)

Note: Occasionally, moving intervening words creates a sentence more awkward than the version with the split infinitive. In such cases, leaving the split infinitive may be the better choice.