Flashcards
UNIT 6
Cards in this deck (4)
- 1How to report statements• Changes of tense: when we use indirect speech after a past tense reporting verb (said, complained), we usually change the tense in the sentences we are reporting. We use a tense one step further in the past (backshift), so present forms become past forms. In addition, past forms become past perfect forms. Notice that the past perfect simple and continuous do not change.
• Modal verbs: we often need to make changes to modal verbs. Where possible, the present form of the modal verb changes to its past form.
• Exception to backshift:
In some cases we can choose to change the tense or not. This often depends on the relationship of the reported event to the time of reporting it. If we report on the day it is said (immediate reporting), tenses are not necessarily backshifted: I am going to go on holiday tomorrow morning/Susana said she’s going to go on holiday tomorrow morning (the situation is still valid).
We don’t usually change the tense when:
The action in indirect speech is still happening or going to happen: they said it will/would be windy tomorrow.
The reporting verb - 2How to report questions• The most common verbs for reporting questions are ask and want to know. We also enquire for formal questions and wonder for asking ourselves.
• When we turn a direct question into an indirect question some rules must be taken into account:
Tenses, demonstratives, pronouns and adverbs change the same as for statements.
Te question mark is omitted.
There is no subject-operator inversion.
• Yes/no questions are introduced with if or whether. We can present alternatives in closed questions with whether or not. Note that if or not is not possible, except by putting or not at the end of the question.
• When we report wh-questions we use a wh-element.
• If the reporting verb is say, it is changed to a verb of enquiry such as ask, wonder, inquire, want to know... - 3How to report command and requests• Verbs used to report commands are tell, order, command and forbid (negative). We use ask for reporting requests, and beg or urge with urgent requests.
• In indirect commands we use a reporting verb and (not) to + infinitive.
• A that clause with should or a subjunctive is also possible to report a command.
• Notice that a to infinitive clause is also used after refusals, offers, promises and threats. However, after apologies: for + ing. - 4How to report suggestions• “Let’s go home”, he suggested. He suggested going home.
• “Why don’t you see a doctor”, he said to Jack. He suggested that Jack should see a doctor.
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- Magisterio Flashcards on UNIT 6, created by Nerea Martínez Sánchez on 18/05/2021.
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- Nerea Martínez Sánchez
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