EnglishClub ESL Forums

Dear Alan,

I can use many introductory verbs (like say, tell, ask, forbid, encourage etc.) in reported speech. What with direct speech? Are these sentences correct?
He forbade me: "You can't do this" (instead of forbade doing)
I allowed him: "Yes, you may borrow it" (instead of allowed to borrow)

Neither of these is possible.

As you have realized, there are some verbs that lend themselves only to indirect constructions.

Are there any other verbs used in direct speech other than say, tell, ask, exclaim? Is there a way to differentiate them from these verbs which cannot be used in direct speech (forbid)?

I'm afraid that I don't have access to any lists of such words, but I am certain you will find that the combinative possibilities must be learned on a case-by-case basis. If you are unsure about any particular word, please ask.