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

Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Medium



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

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

1. Change the reporting verb: The reporting verb should be changed to a verb that indicates preference or liking, such as "prefer," "like," "enjoy," etc.

2. Change the pronouns: The pronouns used in the reported speech should be changed to reflect the subject of the reporting verb. For example, if the original statement was "I prefer coffee," it would be changed to "He/she prefers coffee" in indirect speech.

3. Change the tense: The tense of the verb in the reported speech should be changed to reflect the time of the original statement. For example, if the original statement was in the present tense, it would be changed to the past tense in indirect speech.

4. Change time and place references: If the original statement mentioned specific time or place references, they should be adjusted accordingly in indirect speech. For example, if the original statement was "I prefer to drink coffee in the morning," it would be changed to "He/she prefers to drink coffee in the morning" in indirect speech.

5. Use reporting words or phrases: Use appropriate reporting words or phrases to introduce the reported speech, such as "He/she said that," "He/she mentioned that," etc.

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the context and the specific preferences being reported.