Writing with Tenses / Direct & Indirect Speech
LESSON 183 OF 261 · 8 MIN READ

A Possible Original Quotation

Reverse reporting asks for a possible direct quotation. Indirect speech does not reliably preserve the exact original tense or wording. Multiple quotations may fit; do not claim certainty.

Understand and use it

Reverse reporting asks for a possible direct quotation. Indirect speech does not reliably preserve the exact original tense or wording. Multiple quotations may fit; do not claim certainty.

Look closely

Riya said she was tired. → Possible: Riya said, "I am tired."

Also possible in a suitable earlier context: Riya said, "I was tired."

Apply this lesson in writing →

TRY IT YOURSELF

A quick check

A wrong answer is a chance to learn. Use the hint and try again.