Modifiers and Adverbs

MODIFIERS

EXPLANATION AND EXAMPLE

The APA Style Manual recommends that writers be wary of the following common modifier and adverb writing errors as they can obscure meaning or clarity of language.

MISPLACED MODIFIERS

A misplaced modifier refers to an adjective or adverb element that has been placed in a sentence in an abnormal location that obscures the meaning of the sentence. APA recommends placing a modifying element as closely as possible to the word(s) it modifies in order to avoid this error.

DANGLING MODIFIERS

A dangling modifier refers to an adjective or adverb element that has no direct referent in the sentence and obscures the meaning of the sentence. APA sates that many of these errors arise from Passive Voice usage and recommends the use of Active Voice in order to avoid this error.

ADVERBS: PLACEMENT AND NECESSITY

APA recognizes that adverbs such as fortunately, similarly, certainly, consequently, conversely, and regrettably can be used as introductory elements to sentences; however, the manual advises they be omitted unless there would be a loss of meaning.

If they are used, the manual recommends that the form of the adverb match that of a transitional element rather than an adverbial modifier. This is due to the risk for misplaced modifiers in alternative adverbial placement. Essentially, the ‘ly’ suffix of the adverb is omitted and other words are added if necessary to construct a grammatical element. Here are some examples:

WHERE TO FIND MORE INFORMATION

For more information about formatting for APA Style, see pages 81-82 of the Publication Manual, Sixth Edition (Misplaced and Dangling Modifiers and Use of Adverbs 3.21).