In the following question, a sentence has been given in Direct/Indirect. Out…
2024
In the following question, a sentence has been given in Direct/Indirect. Out of the four alternatives suggested, select the one which best expresses the same sentence in Indirect/ Direct.
“Where are you going?” he said.
- A.
He wants to ask where you are going.
- B.
He wants to know where you are going.
- C.
He wants to tell where you went.
- D.
He asked where I was going.
Attempted by 28 students.
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Rule for reporting Wh-questions: Use 'ask' (or 'wanted to know') + question word + clause with statement word order.
Change the reporting verb to the past: 'said' becomes 'asked' or you can use 'wanted to know'.
Keep the question word (for example, 'where').
Use statement (normal) word order in the reported clause: subject before verb.
Shift tense as needed: present continuous 'are going' -> past continuous 'was going'.
Change pronouns appropriately: 'you' (the person addressed) becomes 'I' if the reporter was the addressee.
Apply to the sentence: 'Where are you going?' he said. Reported speech: He asked where I was going.