Log out Go to App
Go to App

Learning Materials

Features

Discover

Chapter 2: Problem 4

I overheard him say that he had cheated on the exam while I was standing in the hallway. (no error, misplaced modifier)

Short Answer

Expert verified
The corrected sentence with the modifier placed properly should read: 'While I was standing in the hallway, I overheard him say that he had cheated on the exam.'

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Structure of the Sentence

The sentence consists of two clauses: 'I overheard him say that he had cheated on the exam' and 'while I was standing in the hallway'. In understanding these clauses, it's essential to note their relationship and how they interact within the sentence's overall structure.
02

Identify the Modifier and Its Subject

The modifier in this sentence seems to be the clause 'while I was standing in the hallway'. This clause provides additional information to the main clause ('I overheard him say that he had cheated on the exam'), specifying when the action occurred. However, it's not entirely clear what this modifier should be closer to, causing ambiguity. Typically, modifiers should be placed as close as possible to the words they modify for clarity.
03

Correct the Misplaced Modifier

The modifier 'while I was standing in the hallway' needs to be closer to 'I' because it is modifying the action of overhearing. Therefore, rearrange the sentence to read: 'While I was standing in the hallway, I overheard him say that he had cheated on the exam.' Here, it is clear that the action of overhearing happened during the time spent in the hallway.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

  • Full Textbook Solutions

    Get detailed explanations and key concepts

  • Unlimited Al creation

    Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...

  • Ads-free access

    To over 500 millions flashcards

  • Money-back guarantee

    We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

One App. One Place for Learning.

All the tools & learning materials you need for study success - in one app.

Get started for free

Most popular questions from this chapter

He is not so much smart ____________ cunning.

My GMAT teacher defines the conclusion ____________ the main point of the argument.

Many of my favorite ice cream flavors, ____________ chocolate chip and strawberry, are also available as frozen yogurt.

Arranged in secret, the discovery of Romeo and Juliet’s marriage was made only after their deaths. (no error, misplaced modifier)

Since I withdrew money from my bank account, the (number, amount) of dollars in the account is now (fewer, less).
See all solutions

Recommended explanations on English Textbooks

Global English

Read Explanation

Cues and Conventions

Read Explanation

English Language Study

Read Explanation

Rhetoric

Read Explanation

Synthesis Essay

Read Explanation

Text Comparison

Read Explanation
View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.

Sign-up for free