What is one common consequence of using a misplaced modifier in writing?

Prepare for the NES English Language Arts Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions with hints and explanations. Ace your test!

Using a misplaced modifier can significantly alter the intended meaning of a sentence, leading to confusion or misinterpretation for the reader. A modifier is a word or phrase that provides description or adds detail, and when it is not placed correctly, it can suggest incorrect relationships between words in the sentence. For example, in the sentence "She almost drove her kids to school every day," the placement of "almost" implies she was close to driving them but did not. If the intended meaning was that she drove her kids to school every day without exception, the modifier is misplaced and changes the overall message. Correct placement of modifiers is crucial for clarity and precision in writing, ensuring that the reader interprets the sentence as the writer intended.

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