Question 1

How do I change commands to reported speech?

Accepted Answer

To change commands to reported speech, use "told + person + to + infinitive". For example, "Close the door" becomes "She told him to close the door". The imperative verb changes to an infinitive with "to".

Question 2

What is the difference between told and asked in reported commands?

Accepted Answer

Use "told" for direct commands or orders, and "asked" for polite requests. For example: "Do your homework!" uses told (She told him to do his homework), while "Could you please help me?" uses asked (She asked him to help her).

Question 3

How do I report negative commands in English?

Accepted Answer

For negative commands, add "not" before "to": told/asked + person + not to + infinitive. For example, "Don't be late" becomes "She told him not to be late".

Question 4

Which reporting verbs can I use for commands besides told and asked?

Accepted Answer

Other reporting verbs for commands include: ordered, commanded, instructed, begged, urged, warned, advised, encouraged, reminded, and forbade. Each has slightly different usage based on the tone of the original command.

Reported Speech Commands Exercises