MTEL Communication Literacy Skills : Writing Practice Test

Which of the following describes a misplaced modifier's function?

1. It provides clarity to the sentence

2. It enhances the subject's action

3. It may confuse the meaning of the sentence

4. It emphasizes the main verb

The correct answer is: It may confuse the meaning of the sentence

A misplaced modifier often creates confusion in a sentence by suggesting an incorrect relationship between words or phrases. When a modifier, such as an adjective or adverb, is not placed near the word it is intended to modify, it can make the sentence ambiguous or misleading. For example, the statement "She saw the dog running down the street with a broken leg" might imply that it was the dog that had the broken leg, not that the leg was broken while running. By placing the modifier incorrectly, the original intent of the sentence can be obscured or altered, leading the reader to misinterpret the meaning. Thus, identifying and correcting misplaced modifiers is crucial for clear and effective communication.