In indirect speech, if the reporting verb is in the past, "can" changes to?
- Would
- May
- Could
- None of these
Explanation
- In indirect (reported) speech, when the reporting verb is in the past tense, “can” changes to “could”.
- It shows past ability or possibility in reported form.
- Example: He said, “I can swim.” → He said that he could swim.
Last verified on 24-06-2026
Related MCQs
- Ahsan said that I don't forget to water the plants.
- Ahsan reminded me not to forget to water the plants.
- Ahsan told that don't forget to water the plants
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اس سوال کو وضاحت کے ساتھ پڑھیں
- The doctor asked Sara if she had pain in her leg.
- The doctor told Sara that she had pain in her leg.
- The doctor asked Sara if she has pain in her leg.
- The doctor said Sara that she had pain in her leg.
اس سوال کو وضاحت کے ساتھ پڑھیں
- My friend said that if he had known, he would certainly have helped me.
- My friend said that if he knew, he would help me.
- My friend said that had he known, he will help me.
- None of these
اس سوال کو وضاحت کے ساتھ پڑھیں
- He told that he is tired.
- He said that I was tired.
- He said that he was tired.
- None of these
اس سوال کو وضاحت کے ساتھ پڑھیں
- The teacher said that I must complete the assignment that day.
- The teacher said that we had to complete the assignment that day.
- The teacher said that we have to complete the assignment today.
- None of these