Main questions when learning English - Sykalo Eugen 2023
How can I use reported commands and requests in English?
Title: Unveiling the Art of Reporting Commands and Requests in English: A Linguistic Expedition
Abstract:
Language serves as a conduit for expressing a myriad of communicative intents, including the transmission of commands and requests. In English, the act of reporting these imperative utterances introduces an intriguing linguistic phenomenon, wherein speakers convey the words, desires, or directives of others. This scientific article embarks on a comprehensive exploration, delving into the intricacies of reported commands and requests in English. By examining the grammatical structures, verb transformations, and pragmatic implications associated with reported speech, readers will embark on a journey that illuminates the art of relaying commands and requests with accuracy and finesse.
1. Introduction:
Reported speech plays a pivotal role in English discourse, enabling speakers to convey commands and requests made by others. The act of reporting adds an additional layer of complexity, necessitating the understanding and application of specific grammatical structures and pragmatic considerations. This scientific inquiry sets out to unravel the intricacies of reporting commands and requests in English, shedding light on the syntactic patterns, verb transformations, and pragmatic nuances that underlie this linguistic phenomenon. By immersing ourselves in this linguistic exploration, readers will gain a comprehensive understanding of the art of relaying commands and requests accurately and effectively.
2. Grammatical Structures:
Reported commands and requests in English are typically embedded within larger sentences that introduce the source of the utterance. The grammatical structures employed in reported speech vary depending on the verb tense, verb type, and pronoun references. Some common structures include:
a. Reporting Verb + Object + Infinitive: This structure is commonly used when reporting commands or requests. The reporting verb (e.g., “ask,” “tell,” “order”) is followed by an object pronoun and the base form of the verb. For example:
She asked him to close the window.
b. Reporting Verb + Gerund: In certain cases, a gerund (verb form ending in -ing) is used to report a command or request. The reporting verb is followed by an object pronoun and the gerund form of the verb. For example:
He suggested her leaving the party early.
c. Reporting Clause + That + Subject + Verb: Another structure involves using a reporting clause followed by “that,” the subject pronoun, and the base form of the verb. For example:
They insisted that she apologize for her behavior.
3. Verb Transformations:
When reporting commands and requests, it is important to consider the verb transformations that occur, particularly in terms of tense and modality. The reported speech often involves changes in verb tense and modality to reflect the perspective and time frame of the original utterance. Some common transformations include:
a. Backshift of Verb Tenses: In reported speech, the verb tense of the reported command or request is typically shifted back one tense from the original utterance. For example:
Direct speech: “Close the door.”
Reported speech: She told him to close the door.
b. Modality Changes: Modality refers to the expression of certainty, obligation, or possibility. When reporting commands or requests, modality may be altered to reflect the original speaker's intention. For example:
Direct speech: “You must finish your homework.”
Reported speech: She said I had to finish my homework.
4. Pragmatic Considerations:
Reporting commands and requests requires careful attention to pragmatic considerations, as the context, relationship between interlocutors, and cultural norms heavily influence the interpretation and reception of reported speech. Considerations such as politeness, formality, and power dynamics shape the usage of reported commands and requests in various social situations.
Politeness strategies, such as using modal verbs like “would” or employing softening expressions, can mitigate the directness and perceived imposition of reported imperatives. Additionally, the choice of reporting verbs, intonation, and non-verbal cues can influence the pragmatic impact of reported commands and requests.
5. Pedagogical Approaches:
To enhance learners' proficiency in reporting commands and requests, educators can employ various pedagogical approaches. These approaches include:
a. Authentic Materials: Incorporating authentic materials, such as dialogues, speeches, or written texts, provides learners with exposure to real-life instances of reported speech. Analyzing and practicing reported commands and requests in context enhances learners' comprehension and production skills.
b. Role-plays and Simulations: Engaging students in role-plays and simulations allows them to practice reporting commands and requests in interactive and realistic scenarios. This promotes fluency, accuracy, and the ability to adapt reported speech to different communicative contexts.
c. Pragmatic Awareness: Raising learners' awareness of the pragmatic implications of reported commands and requests is essential. Exploring cultural variations in politeness norms and considering the nuances of power dynamics enables learners to report commands and requests with sensitivity and appropriateness.
6. Conclusion:
The act of reporting commands and requests in English is a fascinating linguistic phenomenon that involves syntactic structures, verb transformations, and pragmatic considerations. By understanding the grammatical patterns, verb transformations, and pragmatic nuances associated with reported speech, learners can effectively convey the words, directives, or desires of others. Through pedagogical approaches that incorporate authentic materials, role-plays, and pragmatic awareness, learners can develop their skills in reporting commands and requests, ultimately becoming adept communicators in English.