Overview
Journalistic reported speech uses attribution patterns: The minister said (that)…, According to the report…, The company claimed…, It was reported that…. News English often omits 'that', uses passive attribution (It is said that…), and may not always apply backshift for directness and space.
Journalism Reporting Style
- News reporting uses precise attribution verbs and often places the reporting verb after the quote.
- Inverted'The results are positive,' said the minister.
- AttributedThe president confirmed that negotiations were ongoing.
- PassiveIt was reported that the building had collapsed.
News Reporting Verbs
- announceThe company announced record profits.
- revealDocuments revealed the extent of the damage.
- confirmOfficials confirmed two arrests had been made.
- denyThe spokesperson denied the allegations.
Attribution Patterns
- according toAccording to sources, the deal has collapsed.
- it is saidIt is said that the CEO will resign.
- reportedlyThe company is reportedly planning job cuts.
When to use
News articles
The minister confirmed that taxes would rise.
Online media
According to sources, the merger has been approved.
Broadcast
Authorities said the situation was under control.
Press releases
The company announced it had exceeded its targets.