What are the rules for changing reported commands in indirect speech?

Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Medium



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What are the rules for changing reported commands in indirect speech?

The rules for changing reported commands in indirect speech are as follows:

1. Change the verb form: The verb used in the reported command is changed to the infinitive form (to + base form of the verb). For example, "He said, 'Close the door'" would be reported as "He told me to close the door."

2. Change the pronouns: The pronouns used in the reported command are changed to reflect the perspective of the reporting speaker. For example, "She said, 'Give me the book'" would be reported as "She asked me to give her the book."

3. Change the time and place references: If the reported command includes specific time or place references, they may need to be adjusted to fit the context of the reporting speech. For example, "He said, 'Meet me here tomorrow'" would be reported as "He asked me to meet him there the next day."

4. Use reporting verbs: Introduce the reported command with an appropriate reporting verb such as "ask," "tell," "order," "command," etc. For example, "She said, 'Do your homework'" would be reported as "She commanded me to do my homework."

5. Use reporting conjunctions: Use reporting conjunctions like "that," "if," or "whether" to introduce the reported command. For example, "He said, 'Please let me know if you need any help'" would be reported as "He requested that I let him know if I needed any help."

It is important to note that the reporting verb and reporting conjunction may vary depending on the intention or attitude of the reporting speaker.