Identify the misplaced modifier.

• A. Running quickly, the finish line was crossed by Jenna.
• B. The finish line was crossed quickly by Jenna.
• C. Jenna crossed the finish line, running quickly.
• D. Running quickly, Jenna crossed the finish line.

Answer: (A)

Misplaced modifiers occur when a descriptive phrase is placed so it seems to attach to the wrong word. In the sentence that starts with “Running quickly,” the phrase is meant to describe Jenna’s action. However, it’s right next to “the finish line,” which makes it seem like the finish line is running quickly. That creates confusion because the modifier appears to refer to the wrong noun.

The intended meaning is that Jenna was running quickly as she crossed the finish line, so the modifier should attach to Jenna. Correct versions would be “Running quickly, Jenna crossed the finish line” or “Jenna crossed the finish line quickly.” The other sentences position the modifier correctly or avoid the ambiguity, so they don’t suffer from the same issue.