Understanding the Difference Between Direct and Indirect Speech

Explore the key differences between direct and indirect speech in English grammar.

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Direct speech involves quoting the exact words said by a person, typically enclosed in quotation marks. For example, John said, 'I am going to the store.' Indirect speech, or reported speech, paraphrases what someone has said without using their exact words and without quotation marks. For example, John said that he was going to the store.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is an example of direct speech? An example of direct speech is: John said, 'I am going to the store.'
  2. How is indirect speech formed? Indirect speech is formed by paraphrasing the original statement, e.g., John said that he was going to the store.
  3. When should I use direct speech? Use direct speech when you want to quote someone’s exact words.
  4. Why is indirect speech useful? Indirect speech is useful for summarizing or conveying someone's thoughts without quoting them verbatim.

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