Definition / Explanation
English has many reporting verbs, but they do not all follow the same grammar pattern. Some take a direct object, some are followed by to + infinitive, some by that-clause, and some by verb-ing. This means learners cannot rely only on meaning; they must also learn the pattern that belongs to each verb. For example, advise, invite, and tell often take an object plus to-infinitive. Choosing the wrong pattern can make a sentence sound unnatural even if the basic idea is clear.
Key Rules
- say is usually followed by a that-clause: He said that...
- tell usually needs an object: He told me that...
- Some verbs take object + to-infinitive: advise me to apply, tell her to wait.
- Some verbs are followed by verb-ing: admit doing, suggest going.
- Learn reporting verbs as grammar chunks, not as single dictionary items.
Examples
- He told me to wait.
- She advised me to apply.
- They said that they were ready.
- He suggested going by train.
- She admitted making a mistake.
Common Mistakes
- ❌ He said me to wait. -> ✅ He told me to wait.
- ❌ She advised me apply. -> ✅ She advised me to apply.
- ❌ He suggested to go by train. -> ✅ He suggested going by train.