Phrases Uses Of Phrases Questions Long
Reported speech clauses are used to convey someone else's words or thoughts indirectly. There are three main types of reported speech clauses:
1. Statements: These clauses are used to report someone's statement or assertion. They typically begin with a reporting verb such as "said," "told," or "asked," followed by the reported statement. For example:
- He said that he was going to the store.
- She told me that she had finished her homework.
- They asked if I wanted to join them for dinner.
2. Questions: These clauses are used to report someone's question. The reporting verb is usually followed by an introductory phrase such as "asked," "wondered," or "inquired," and then the reported question. The word order in reported questions is usually changed, with the subject coming before the verb. For example:
- She asked me if I had seen her keys.
- He wondered where they were going for vacation.
- They inquired whether I knew the answer.
3. Commands and requests: These clauses are used to report someone's command or request. The reporting verb is followed by an introductory phrase such as "ordered," "requested," or "told," and then the reported command or request. For example:
- The teacher told us to be quiet.
- He ordered them to leave the room immediately.
- She requested that I bring her a glass of water.
It is important to note that when reporting speech, certain changes may occur, such as changes in verb tense, pronouns, and adverbs of time and place. Additionally, reported speech clauses are often introduced by words like "that," "if," or "whether," but these introductory words can sometimes be omitted.