1. Misplaced Modifier: "I saw a dog running down the street with a red collar."
* Problem: The phrase "with a red collar" seems to be describing the street, rather than the dog.
* Solution: "I saw a dog with a red collar running down the street."
2. Misplaced Modifier: "They served roast beef with mashed potatoes that was delicious."
* Problem: It sounds like the mashed potatoes were delicious, not the roast beef.
* Solution: "They served delicious roast beef with mashed potatoes." OR "The roast beef, served with mashed potatoes, was delicious."
3. Misplaced Modifier: "I bought a new car that had a sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system from the dealership."
* Problem: It seems like the dealership has a sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system.
* Solution: "I bought a new car from the dealership that had a sunroof, leather seats, and a navigation system."
4. Misplaced Modifier: "The man, walking down the street, was wearing a blue hat."
* Problem: It sounds like the street is walking down the street!
* Solution: "Walking down the street, the man was wearing a blue hat." OR "The man walking down the street wore a blue hat."
5. Misplaced Modifier: "I saw a bird flying in the sky that was yellow."
* Problem: It sounds like the sky is yellow.
* Solution: "I saw a yellow bird flying in the sky." OR "I saw a bird that was yellow flying in the sky."
General Tips for Avoiding Misplaced Modifiers:
* Keep Modifiers Close to the Words They Modify: Make sure the modifier is placed directly next to the word or phrase it's describing.
* Read Your Sentences Carefully: Pay attention to how your sentences sound. If something feels off, check for misplaced modifiers.
* Use "That" and "Which" Correctly: "That" usually introduces a restrictive clause (essential information), while "which" introduces a non-restrictive clause (extra information).
By following these tips, you can avoid misplaced modifiers and ensure your writing is clear and concise.