Reported orders, requests and advice

We can use order, tell, ask and advise to report orders, requests and advice. The verb pattern for all the verbs is the same: verb + object + infinitive with to.

We use order and tell to report orders.
‘Shut the door!’ ! She ordered me to shut the door.
‘Sit down!’ ! He told us to sit down.
We use ask to report requests.
‘Can you open the door?’ ! I asked him to open the door.

We use advise to report advice.
‘You should change jobs.’ ! He advised me to change jobs.

When we report speech, the verb often goes back further into the past. Pronouns and time references, etc. also change.

We don’t need to change the verb form into the past when we are reporting something that is still true now, or was
said recently. We use the present form of a reporting verb.

‘I think the meeting is fi nishing now.’! Paolo says he
thinks the meeting is finishing now.

When we report questions, we keep the word order the same as for statements.
We don’t use the auxiliary verb do/does/did, and we don’t
use a question mark.
‘What does Imogen think?’
They asked me what Imogen thought.
NOT They asked me what did Imogen think.

With yes/no questions, use if or whether.
‘Are you coming to the party?’
She asked me if I was coming to the party.

Many people often wonder whether they are introverts or extroverts. Psychologists have argued that these personality types help explain why some people feel comfortable alone, and others desire social interaction. Experts have also suggested that science and biology can influence where someone falls on the introvert-extrovert spectrum.

Several studies have claimed that introverts generally enjoy spending time by themselves, preferring quiet activities, such as reading, drawing, or walking alone. It has been observed that these individuals might need time alone after a busy day to recharge their energy. In contrast, researchers have pointed out that extroverts love being surrounded by people. They have explained that these individuals feel energized by group activities and often enjoy meeting new friends, joining conversations, or taking part in lively events.

It has been shown through research that it is rare for someone to be totally introverted or extroverted. Most people fall somewhere in the middle. Scientists have introduced the term 'ambivert' to describe people who show a balance of both introvert and extrovert qualities. Psychologists maintain that personality traits exist on a spectrum instead of being two strict categories.

The reasons why someone becomes more introverted or more extroverted have been explored by many researchers. It has been stated that both genetics and environment play a large role. Family studies have supported the idea that personality can be affected by genes, suggesting that we may inherit certain tendencies from our parents.

Biologists have found physical differences in the brains of introverts and extroverts. For example, it has been revealed that extroverts tend to have a more active dopamine system. Dopamine is a chemical that is thought to create feelings of excitement and reward. Because of this, extroverts are believed to seek out new and exciting experiences, while introverts might avoid situations that are too stimulating. Experts have shown that introverts usually respond better to calmer and less noisy environments.

Other research has reported that the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain responsible for thinking and planning) is thicker in many introverts. It has been suggested that this is why introverts often think things through before acting or speaking. On the other hand, scientists have commented that extroverts react quickly to situations and may be more comfortable making fast decisions.

Culture can also play an important part in shaping whether individuals act more reserved or outgoing. Sociologists have said that in certain cultures, extroverted behaviors are rewarded, while in others, quieter and more reflective qualities are seen as positive. Teachers, friends, and family all influence social habits and self-perception during development.

Understanding your own personality can help you manage your energy, relationships, and even your career. Experts agree that neither introversion nor extroversion is superior. Both have their own strong points: introverts are often described as attentive listeners and original thinkers, while extroverts are praised for their enthusiasm and confidence.

In conclusion, researchers have noted that appreciating your own type, or recognizing your position on the spectrum, allows you to take better care of your needs. Whether you are an introvert, extrovert, or ambivert, what matters most is to respect yourself and others. The world benefits from all personality types, and every individual brings something valuable to society.

1. Do you consider yourself an introvert, an extrovert, or somewhere in between? Why?
2. What are some advantages and disadvantages of being an introvert or an extrovert?
3. How do cultural differences influence whether people act more introverted or extroverted?
4. How can understanding your personality type help you in your personal or professional life?
5. Can people change their personality traits over time? Why or why not?

Consonant clusters are groups of two or more consonant sounds that appear together without any vowels between them. They can occur at the beginning, middle, or end of words. For example, in the word "street," the sounds /s/, /t/, and /r/ form a consonant cluster at the start.

Some common consonant clusters at the beginning of words include "bl" as in "black," "str" as in "strong," and "fl" as in "flower." At the end of words, clusters like "-nd" in "land" or "-st" in "fast" are very common.