05.08.2022

 

The introductory sentence in the Simple Present

If the introductory sentence is in the Simple Present, there is no backshift of tenses.

• Direct Speech → Susan: “Mary works in an office.”
• Reported Speech → Susan says (that)* Mary works in an office.

The introductory sentence is here: Susan says ... → this sentence is in the Simple Present, so there is no backshift of tenses.

1.2. The introductory sentence in the Simple Past

If the introductory sentence is in the Simple Past, there is mostly backshift of tenses.

• Direct Speech → Susan: “Mary works in an office.”
• Reported Speech → Susan said (that)* Mary worked in an office.

The introductory sentence is here: Susan said ... → this sentence is in the Simple Past, so there is backshift of tenses.

1.3. Types of introductory sentences

The word say in introductory sentences can be substituted with other words, e.g.

• add
• decide
• know
• mention
• remark
• tell *
• think

https://www.englisch-hilfen.de/uebungen/indirekte_rede/aussagen.htm

 

  

            

  

  

     

    

https://www.englishpage.com/gerunds/gerunds_infinitives_5.htm