What noun does this modifier modify?

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What noun does this modifier modify?

by torofish » Sun Sep 12, 2010 11:14 pm
Hi, I'm a bit curious about modifier issue.

I've read, heard about the modifier rule, which the preceding now must IMMEDIATELY follow the phrase.

But if it's an " 's " like this case.


Having no predator, john's dog loves running around the house.


Which one does it modify?

It's
DOG
or
JOHN?
Source: — Sentence Correction |

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by Maciek » Mon Sep 13, 2010 4:34 am
Hi all!

The sentence is correct( an example of well placed modifier):
Having no predator, John's dog loves running around the house.

The sentence is incorrect( an example of poorly placed modifier):
John's dog loves running around the house having no predator.

"having no predator" is a modifying phrase that must be placed next to the "dog" it modifies.
"John's" is a possesive case of John.

Read more about dangling/misplaced modifiers:
https://www.studygs.net/modcom.htm

Hope it helps!
Best,
Maciek
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