Direct and Indirect Speech

Direct speech is a way to report what someone has said or written, in the form of statements, questions, or other speech, quoting his words exactly.

In contrast to indirect speech, speech delivered by changing the format to make it more clear, natural, and efficient for the listener.

Examples of direct and indirect speech :

* Direct Speech

1. He said, “I have a present for you in my bag. here”
2. He said, “I do not have a present for you in my bag”
3. He asked, “Do I have a present for you in my bag?”
4. He asked me, “ Why do I have to have a present for you in my bag?
5. He ordered/commanded me, “Bring my bag herenow!”

* Indirect Speech

1. He said that he had a present for me in his bagthere.
2. He said that he did not have a present for me in his bag.
3. He asked me if/whether he had a present for me in his bag.
4. He asked me why he had to have a present for me in his bag.
5. He ordered/commanded me to bring his bag there then.