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Reported speech “TELL” IN REPORTED SPEECH

In reported speech, “tell” can also be used as
the main verb. It must be followed by an
The words that people say are called direct speech. See also: object, which shows who someone is talking to.
Reported speech is often used to describe what Present simple 1 Past simple 7
someone said at an earlier point in time. Types of verbs 49 “Say” does not need to
be followed by an object.

REPORTED SPEECH
Direct speech uses the present simple.
The main verb in reported
speech is usually “said.”
The reported verb is
usually in a different tense “Tell” must be followed by an object.
from the direct speech.

“That” is usually added after Reported speech uses the past
“said” in reported speech. simple for the reported verb. FURTHER EXAMPLES

FURTHER EXAMPLES

“That” can also be
left out in reported
speech with “told.”

HOW TO FORM

Can be left out.
SUBJECT “SAID” “THAT” SUBJECT PAST SIMPLE REST OF SENTENCE COMMON MISTAKES “SAY” AND “TELL” IN REPORTED SPEECH

“Told” must have an object.

The person Past simple The subject of the Present simple in direct
who said the of “say.” direct speech. “I” speech becomes past
direct speech. becomes “he.” simple in reported speech.
“Said” cannot have an object.

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