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

Direct And Indirect Speech Questions Medium



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

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

1. Change the reporting verb: The reporting verb used to introduce the reported request is usually changed to a verb such as 'ask', 'request', 'tell', or 'order'.

2. Change the pronouns: The pronouns used in the reported request are usually changed to reflect the perspective of the person reporting the request. For example, 'I' may be changed to 'he', 'she', or 'they'.

3. Change the verb tense: The verb tense used in the reported request is usually shifted back in time. For example, if the original request was in the present tense, it may be changed to the past tense in the reported speech.

4. Change the reporting words: Words indicating the request, such as 'please' or 'could you', are usually omitted or changed to fit the context of the reported speech.

5. Use reporting clauses: Reporting clauses such as 'that', 'if', or 'whether' are often used to introduce the reported request.

It is important to note that these rules may vary depending on the specific context and the tense of the original request.