02 Reported commands and requests
The pattern
- Command: subject + told / ordered / warned + object + to + infinitive.
- Request: subject + asked + object + to + infinitive.
- Negative: subject + reporting verb + object + not to + infinitive.
- Direct: "Turn off the machine!" → The supervisor told me to turn off the machine.
- Direct: "Don't touch the controls!" → She warned us not to touch the controls.
- Direct: "Could you check the system?" → He asked me to check the system.
- Direct: "Can you update the software of my computer?" → He asked me to update the software of his computer.
Choosing the reporting verb
1told
Use
- neutral command
Example
- The teacher told the students to do their homework.
2ordered
Use
- strong, official command
Example
- The officer ordered them to leave the building.
3asked
Use
- polite request
Example
- He asked me to write the report.
4warned
Use
- a danger or a prohibition
Example
- The guide warned us not to touch the statue.
5advised
Use
- a recommendation
Example
- The technician advised her to update the drivers.
Never use said with an object
- Correct: She told me to wait. / She said (that) I should wait.
- Wrong: She said me to wait.