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

Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Medium



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

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

1. Change the reporting verb: The reporting verb should be changed to a verb that indicates refusal, such as "refuse," "decline," or "deny."

2. Change the pronouns: Pronouns in the reported refusal should be changed to reflect the perspective of the person reporting the refusal. For example, "I" becomes "he/she," "we" becomes "they," and so on.

3. Change the verb tense: The verb tense in the reported refusal should be shifted back in time. For example, if the original refusal was in the present tense, it should be changed to the past tense in indirect speech.

4. Change time and place references: If there are any time or place references in the reported refusal, they should be adjusted to fit the context of the reporting speech.

5. Use reporting words or phrases: Use appropriate reporting words or phrases to introduce the reported refusal, such as "He/she refused to," "They declined to," or "He/she said no to."

It is important to note that the exact changes may vary depending on the specific context and tense of the original refusal.