What are Reported Commands and Requests?
When we want to tell others about commands or requests that were given, we use reported speech. Instead of repeating the exact words, we transform the command into a reported form using 'tell' or 'ask' + person + to-infinitive.
Basic Structure
Direct command: 'Stop talking!'
Reported command: She told us to stop talking.
Reported command: She told us to stop talking.
Direct request: 'Please help me.'
Reported request: He asked me to help him.
Negative Commands
For negative commands, we add 'not' before the to-infinitive:
Direct: 'Don't open the window!'
Reported: She told me not to open the window.
Direct: 'Don't open the window!'
Reported: She told me not to open the window.
Examples
The teacher told the students to submit their homework.Original command was 'Submit your homework!' – converted using 'tell + person + to-infinitive'
My mother asked me not to be late.Original request was 'Don't be late!' – converted using 'ask + person + not to-infinitive'
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Incorrect: She told me don't go.
✅ Correct: She told me not to go.
Explanation: Always use 'not to' instead of 'don't' in reported commands
❌ Incorrect: He asked to me help him.
✅ Correct: He asked me to help him.
Explanation: The word order should be 'ask + person + to-infinitive' (no 'to' after ask)
Tips for Success
- Always use the to-infinitive after 'tell' and 'ask'
- For negative commands, put 'not' before the to-infinitive
- The word 'please' is usually omitted in reported requests
Learning Path Notes
Key Concepts in This Series:
- Basic reported speech structure
- Use of tell/ask + to-infinitive
- Converting negative commands