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Definition1

Title: Modifiers

Grade Lesson s1-l3

Explanation: In this section, we’ll clearly outline the essential definitions and concepts for PSAT to build a strong foundation.

Definition

Topics → Definition Example

Definition: Modifiers

Modifiers are words or phrases that describe something else, and can sometimes be confusing or ambiguous when arranged in certain ways, as with misplaced, dangling, or squinting modifiers. It usually modifies nouns, verbs, adjectives, or adverbs.

Examples:

Sentence: He wore a helmet on his head that was too large.

Correct sentence: He wore a helmet that was too large on his head.

Definition: Misplaced modifiers

A misplaced modifier is a word, phrase, or clause that is improperly separated from the word it modifies / describes. It is palced incorrectly.

Examples:

Sentence: The patient was referred to the physician with a headache.

Correct sentence: The patient with a headache was referred to the physician.

Definition: Dangling modifiers

A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence.

Examples:

Sentence: Riding on the sports bike, the world whizzed by rapidly.

Correct sentence: As Peter was riding on the sports bike, the world whizzed by rapidly.

Definition: Squinting modifiers

A squinting modifier is a modifier placed in a sentence so that it is unclear which word it modifies. It can logically modify either the word before it or the word after it, causing confusion.

Examples:

Sentence: Saving a life often made Max feel proud.

Correct sentence: Saving a life made Max feel proud often.