C1 reported speech goes beyond basic backshifting. Key areas: complex reporting verb patterns (insist on -ing, warn against, deny -ing, object to), when NOT to backshift (permanent facts, modals that don't change), and nuanced verb choice: picking the verb that accurately captures the speaker's intent, tone, and register.
C1 reporting verbs take specific grammatical patterns: verb + to-inf, verb + that-clause, verb + -ing, verb + object + to-inf, verb + prep + -ing. Choose the correct pattern.
| Verb | Pattern | Example |
|---|---|---|
| insist on | + gerund / NP | insisted on reviewing the contract |
| deny | + gerund | denied leaking the information |
| admit | + gerund / that-clause | admitted making an error / admitted that she was wrong |
| warn | + object + against + gerund | warned them against investing |
| advise | + object + to-inf / against + gerund | advised her to wait / advised against rushing |
| object to | + gerund / NP | objected to the proposal being changed |
| offer | + to-inf | offered to help |
| refuse | + to-inf | refused to cooperate |
| threaten | + to-inf | threatened to resign |
| urge | + object + to-inf | urged the committee to reconsider |
| apologise for | + gerund / NP | apologised for missing the deadline |
| boast of/about | + gerund | boasted of never having lost a case |
| propose / suggest | + gerund / that-clause | proposed delaying the vote / suggested that they wait |
| accuse of | + gerund | accused him of lying under oath |