Mixed sentence constructions occur when parts of a sentence follow incompatible grammatical patterns or express ideas that do not fit together clearly. Learning to spot and repair them helps make analytical writing precise and easy to follow.
A mixed-construction sentence begins along one grammatical or logical path and then unintentionally changes direction. The result may be confusing, ungrammatical, or both. Often, a sentence starts with one kind of subject or phrase but finishes as though it began with another.
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What is a mixed construction?
A sentence in which parts do not fit because the grammatical structure or meaning shifts unexpectedly. Revise it so its parts follow one clear path.
How can you repair a sentence that changes grammatical direction?
Revise either the beginning or the ending so both parts fit the same structure. You can also rewrite the sentence more directly or split it into two sentences.
What is awkward about “For people who have hobbies, they are happier”?
The opening phrase establishes the group, then “they” repeats that reference. Streamline it to “People who have hobbies are happier.”
Why is “is when” often unsuitable in formal writing?
A linking verb such as *is* usually connects a subject to a word or phrase that describes or renames it. *When* introduces a time clause, which may not logically complete a subject such as “A feeling of accomplishment.”
How can “Just because … doesn’t mean” be revised?
Express the relationship with a balanced structure, such as “Simply wanting to work in Washington does not guarantee a good job there” or “Although I want to work in Washington, I will need to find a good job there.”
Quiz questions
What is a mixed-construction sentence?Answer: A sentence whose structure or meaning shifts so its parts no longer fit.
Why is “For people who have hobbies, they are happier than others” awkward?Answer: The opening phrase establishes the group, then “they” repeats that reference.
If the intended qualification is a skill, which revision correctly fixes “The required qualification is someone who writes well”?Answer: The required qualification is the ability to write well.
Why can “A feeling of accomplishment is when I finish revising a paper” be a mixed construction?Answer: It links a noun phrase to a time clause where a describing or renaming phrase is needed.
Which revision uses “when” to introduce a time clause and gives the sentence a clear subject and verb?Answer: You can save the most electricity when you put your computer to sleep.
Based on Writing Guide with Handbook by Michelle Bachelor Robinson, Maria Jerskey, featuring Toby Fulwiler (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.