Said and Told

In this reporting pattern, say does not take a person directly. Tell normally does. Say to somebody is possible; tell somebody that is a common reported form.

Understand and use it

In this reporting pattern, say does not take a person directly. Tell normally does. Say to somebody is possible; tell somebody that is a common reported form.

Look closely

He said that he was busy.

He told me that he was busy.

He said to me, "I am busy."

Avoid: He said me that he was busy.

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A quick check

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