Misplace your keys, and you may miss an appointment. Misplace your cell phone, and you will miss some calls. But — misplace or dangle your modifiers, and readers will wonder what in the world you’re trying to say.
Modifiers are words, phrases, and clauses that limit or describe other words or groups of words. They can be adjectives, adverbs, prepositional phrases, or phrases that begin with a participle. When used incorrectly, they’re referred to as misplaced and dangling modifiers. At the least, they frustrate the reader; at best, they’re unintentionally humorous.
Whether it’s an email, a handwritten card or a cover letter, using correct grammar and the right vocabulary will ensure the message is delivered clearly, concisely and effectively. Writing and reading periodicals, books or newspapers are fun and creative ways to improve grammar and vocabulary whilst gaining insight on compelling issues. Learning how to improve grammar and vocabulary doesn’t have to be challenging or confusing. With these 10 tips, anyone can improve grammar and become a better writer today.
Oxford University Press has one of the largest language research programs in the world and continuously scours the internet, popular fiction, science journals, and even song lyrics for words creeping into the English language. At one time, 2-3 years of use was required before a new word/term appeared in the Oxford English Dictionary, but the internet has cranked the speed of language evolution. Oxford says, “We select those which we judge to be the most significant or important and those which we think are likely to stand the test of time.”
