Introduction

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We use inverted commas when we use someone else's words.

 

If we use their exact words, we should use inverted commas. This is direct speech.

 

If we say the same thing in our own words, we don't need to use inverted commas.

This is indirect speech.

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Direct Speech vs Indirect Speech

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Direct: Confucius said, "It does not matter how slowly you go so long as you do not stop."

Indirect: Confucius said that it doesn't matter how slow you go, as long as you don't stop.

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Direct: "Stay at home," requested Boris Johnson.

Indirect: Boris Johnson asked us to stay at home.

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Direct: "Quality is not an act, it is a habit," advised Aristotle.

Indirect: Aristotle once stated that quality is a habit and not an act.

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