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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 SAT 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.

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.

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 word that describes something but that is out of place.

Examples:

Sentence: Saving a life often made Max feel proud.

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