CMA Foundation · Fundamentals of Business Laws and Business Communication · Writing and Drafting for Business Audiences
Which sentence is most likely to be criticised for lack of clarity because of a misplaced modifier?
The sentence 'Hanging on the office wall, the auditor noticed the faded notice' is unclear. The opening phrase wrongly seems to modify the auditor instead of the notice, creating a misplaced modifier and an unintended meaning that damages clarity.
- AThe invoice was sent to the buyer on Monday.
- BPlease find attached the report prepared by Meena for the board.
- CHanging on the office wall, the auditor noticed the faded notice.Correct
- DThe auditor noticed the faded notice on the office wall.
Explanation
In the third sentence, 'hanging on the office wall' seems to describe the auditor, not the notice, giving an unintended meaning. The fourth sentence places the phrase beside the notice, making the meaning clear. The other two are unambiguous.
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