Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Long
When reporting the opinions of others, there are certain changes that occur in the reported speech. These changes mainly involve the use of reporting verbs, pronouns, tenses, and adverbs. Let's discuss these changes in detail:
1. Reporting Verbs:
When reporting opinions, we often use reporting verbs such as "say," "tell," "state," "mention," etc. These verbs are used to introduce the reported speech and indicate that someone is expressing their opinion. For example:
- Direct speech: "I think she should study abroad."
- Indirect speech: He said that he thought she should study abroad.
2. Pronouns:
In reported speech, pronouns often change to reflect the perspective of the speaker. The pronouns in the reported speech are usually shifted to the third person. For example:
- Direct speech: "We believe it is a good idea."
- Indirect speech: They said that they believed it was a good idea.
3. Tenses:
The tense of the verb in reported speech is usually shifted back in time. This means that present tenses change to past tenses, and past tenses change to past perfect tenses. However, if the reported statement is still true or relevant at the time of reporting, the tense may remain unchanged. For example:
- Direct speech: "I am happy with the results."
- Indirect speech: She said that she was happy with the results.
4. Adverbs and Adverbial Expressions:
Adverbs and adverbial expressions indicating time and place may also undergo changes in reported speech. These changes are made to reflect the perspective of the speaker. For example:
- Direct speech: "He said, 'I will meet you tomorrow.'"
- Indirect speech: He said that he would meet me the next day.
It is important to note that when reporting opinions, we should use reporting verbs that accurately convey the speaker's attitude or opinion. Additionally, any necessary changes in pronouns, tenses, and adverbs should be made to ensure the reported speech is grammatically correct and reflects the original opinion accurately.