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dangling

/ˈdæŋɡlɪŋ/
verb★Intermediate💡 hanging loosely

“The necklace was dangling from her neck.”

It was hanging loosely.

informal

Hanging loosely or swinging free.

A loose thread was dangling from the sweater.

A thread was hanging loosely from the sweater.

💡

Often used for physical objects that are not firmly attached.

technical

A modifier that is not clearly attached to the word it modifies, creating ambiguity.

In the sentence 'Running quickly improves health,' the phrase 'running quickly' is a dangling modifier.

The introductory phrase is not clearly linked to a subject, causing confusion.

💡

Common term in grammar and writing instruction.

Collocations

dangling participlea participial phrase that lacks a clear subjectdangling clausea clause that is not properly attached to the main clause

Synonyms

hangingsuspendedloose

Antonyms

fixedanchoredsecured

Related Phrases

dangling modifierphrase
a misplaced modifier that creates ambiguity

💡Pro Tip

Avoid Ambiguity

When writing, make sure the subject of a participial phrase is clearly stated to prevent a dangling modifier.

⚡Gold Rule

Clear Attachment

A modifier should directly follow the word it describes; otherwise it may be considered dangling.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English *dangling*, from the verb *dangen* ‘to hang’, of Germanic origin; related to Old English *dangian*.

📝Usage Notes

Use 'dangling' for objects that physically hang or swing. In writing, avoid dangling modifiers to keep sentences clear.

English Dictionary

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