Overview
In everyday spoken English, reported speech is often simplified: 'that' is omitted, backshift may be skipped for recent speech, and informal markers like 'apparently' or 'she was like' are used. These spoken patterns differ from written grammar rules but are natural and widely accepted.
Natural Conversation Reporting
- In spoken English, reported speech is often less formal than written rules suggest.
- That-drop'She said she was tired.' (no 'that' needed)
- No backshift'He said he can't come tomorrow.' (recent, still valid)
- Natural'She goes: I'm so tired.' (informal spoken style)
Common Spoken Reporting Phrases
- apparentlyApparently, she's moving to Paris.
- supposedlySupposedly, the meeting was cancelled.
- according toAccording to Mark, the film was great.
- go/be likeShe was like, 'I can't believe it!' (informal)
Formal vs Informal Reporting
- InformalShe goes, 'I'm not going.'
- NeutralShe said she wasn't going.
- FormalShe stated that she would not be attending.
When to use
Gossip
Apparently, they're getting married!
Texting
She said she'd be there at 7.
Social
According to Tom, the party was amazing.
Storytelling
And she goes, 'I had no idea!'