A modifier is considered dangling when the sentence isn’t clear about what is being modified. For example, “The big” doesn’t make sense without telling what is big which leaves “big” as a dangling modifier; but, “the big dog” is a complete phrase.

A dangling modifier is a phrase or clause that is not clearly and logically related to the word or words it modifies (i.e. is placed next to). Two notes about dangling modifiers: In most cases, the dangling modifier appears at the beginning of the sentence, although it can also come at the end.

A dangling modifier is a word or phrase that modifies a word not clearly stated in the sentence. A modifier describes, clarifies, or gives more detail about a concept. Having finished the assignment, Jill turned on the TV. “Having finished” states an action but does not name the doer of that action.

How to Identify Dangling Modifiers in Your Writing

1. Look at each sentence individually. Check each sentence for an introductory phrase that comes before the subject of the main clause.
2. Determine what the introductory phrase modifies.
3. Ensure that the modified noun is correct.

An appositive is a noun or pronoun — often with modifiers — set beside another noun or pronoun to explain or identify it. An appositive phrase usually follows the word it explains or identifies, but it may also precede it. A bold innovator, Wassily Kandinsky is known for his colorful abstract paintings.

Sometimes, appositives and appositive phrases begin with that is, in other words, such as, and for example. Appositives may be considered essential or nonessential depending on the context. Richard, my brother, is taking me to the airport Friday afternoon.

A compound sentence is made up of two independent clauses joined by a coordinating conjunction (for, and, nor, but, or, yet, or so) and a comma or by a semicolon alone. Example: The pirate captain lost her treasure map, but she still found the buried treasure.