Using Reporting Verbs Correctly allows you to accurately convey someone else's words or ideas. This involves selecting the appropriate verb and adjusting the sentence structure to maintain clarity and precision.
Examples
Example 1
IncorrectThe witness said me that the road was closed.
BetterThe witness told me that the road was closed.
'Told' is used because the listener is directly mentioned.
Example 2
IncorrectShe explained that why the original plan had failed.
BetterShe explained why the original plan had failed.
Remove 'that' to correctly follow the verb 'explained' with a wh-clause.
How It Works
Meaning
Reporting verbs are used to convey someone else's words or ideas accurately in a new sentence. They help maintain clarity and precision by selecting the appropriate verb and adjusting the sentence structure.
Common reporting verbs include say, tell, explain, and ask. These verbs require specific structures to follow them, such as clauses beginning with that, whether, or wh-words.
Mastering reporting verbs is essential at the B2 level for effective communication in both written and spoken English.
Use it when
- Conveying someone else's speech or ideas in writing or conversation.
- Summarizing information from sources in academic writing.
- Reporting past conversations or events in formal or informal contexts.
- Explaining or clarifying information to others.
See it
Quick rules
- Use say when the listener is not directly mentioned.
- Use tell when the listener is directly mentioned.
- Choose the correct clause pattern after the reporting verb.
- Maintain the original meaning when shifting tenses.
- Ensure reported questions use statement order, not question order.
Common Mistakes
Common problem 1
Choosing the wrong reporting verb or clause pattern after it
WeakThe teacher said us that the deadline had changed.
StrongThe teacher told us that the deadline had changed.
Fix: Use 'tell' when the listener is specified, and ensure the clause pattern fits the verb.
Common problem 2
Using 'say' with an indirect object
WeakThe officer said us that the road was closed.
StrongThe officer told us that the road was closed.
Fix: Use 'tell' when the listener is named directly.
Common problem 3
Keeping direct-question word order inside a reported question
WeakShe asked where was the nearest station.
StrongShe asked where the nearest station was.
Fix: Reported questions use statement order, not direct-question order.
Practice Lab
Practice
First notice the right form. Then build it yourself. Then fix it in a full sentence.
Score: 0/3
Focus on choosing the correct reporting verb and structure for clarity.
1. Quick pick
Choose the stronger sentence for reporting someone's words.
2. Build it
Put this reporting sentence in the correct order.
Tap a chunk to move it down. Tap it again to send it back.
3. Final sort
Mark each sentence as correct or needing a fix.
The manager told me that the meeting was postponed.
The manager said me that the meeting was postponed.
She explained why the new policy was implemented.
She explained that why the new policy was implemented.
Why It Matters
🎯 Why it matters: Mastery of reporting verbs is crucial for clear communication in both written and spoken English. Misuse can lead to misunderstandings and confusion, especially in academic and professional settings.
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