Reported Speech Questions Medium
The exceptions to tense backshifting in reported speech are as follows:
1. Present simple and present continuous: If the reported statement is still true or relevant at the time of reporting, there is no need to backshift the tense. For example:
- Direct speech: "I am going to the party tonight."
- Reported speech: He said he is going to the party tonight.
2. Present perfect and past simple: If the reported statement refers to a past event or situation that is still true or relevant at the time of reporting, the tense remains unchanged. For example:
- Direct speech: "I have visited Paris before."
- Reported speech: She said she has visited Paris before.
3. Future forms: If the reported statement refers to a future event or situation, the tense can remain unchanged or be backshifted depending on the context. For example:
- Direct speech: "I will call you tomorrow."
- Reported speech (no backshifting): He said he will call me tomorrow.
- Reported speech (backshifting): He said he would call me the next day.
It is important to note that these exceptions may vary depending on the specific context and the speaker's intention.