Question

The following sentence was taken from an ACT English section. Choose the option that best expresses the idea, makes the statement appropriate in standard written English, or is worded most consistently with the style and tone of the sentence as a whole. If you think the original version is correct, choose 'no change.' While watching from the top of the hill, the sunset was indescribably beautiful.

1) No change
2) The sunset is beautiful beyond description
3) We were awed by the sunset's indescribable beauty
4) The beauty of the sunset was impossible to describe

Answer 1

The best option to correct the misplaced modifier in the sentence is 'We were awed by the sunset's indescribable beauty,' as it clearly indicates the subject's reaction to the sunset.

Step-by-step explanation:

The sentence in question contains a misplaced modifier that makes it unclear who was watching the sunset. The correct option should clearly indicate the subject who is experiencing the beauty of the sunset. To best express the idea and maintain standard written English consistent with the style and tone of the sentence, 'Option 3: We were awed by the sunset's indescribable beauty' is the best choice. This option corrects the dangling modifier by clearly stating the observers ('We') and describes their reaction to the sunset, making it consistent with the descriptive passages provided.