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

Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Medium



19 Short 55 Medium 80 Long Answer Questions Question Index

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

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

1. Change the pronouns: In indirect speech, the pronouns used in the reported opinion are changed to reflect the perspective of the speaker. For example, "I think the movie is great" would be changed to "He/she said that he/she thought the movie was great."

2. Change the verb tense: The verb tense used in the reported opinion is usually shifted back one tense. For example, "I like this book" would be changed to "He/she said that he/she liked that book."

3. Change adverbs and adjectives: Adverbs and adjectives used in the reported opinion may need to be changed to reflect the speaker's perspective. For example, "She said it was very difficult" would be changed to "He/she said it was quite challenging."

4. Change time and place references: Time and place references in the reported opinion may need to be adjusted to match the perspective of the speaker. For example, "They said they were going to the park tomorrow" would be changed to "He/she said they were going to the park the next day."

5. Use reporting verbs: Reporting verbs such as "say," "tell," "mention," etc., are used to introduce the reported opinion. These verbs are followed by a reporting clause that contains the reported opinion. For example, "He told me, 'I don't like this song'" would be changed to "He told me that he didn't like that song."

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the context and the tense of the reported opinion.