How to Use Indirect Speech in German

What is Indirect Speech?

Indirect speech refers to the reporting of speech without quoting the exact words of the speaker. In English, we use indirect speech to recount what someone else said without directly quoting their words.

Indirect Speech in German

In German, indirect speech is often expressed using the subjunctive mood. This is similar in concept to constructs used in English, like "He said that he was going to the store." However, the German subjunctive can be more complex due to verb conjugation changes.

Using the Subjunctive Mood

To form indirect speech in German, you often use the Konjunktiv I and Konjunktiv II forms. These moods alter the verb to express uncertainty or a report of someone else's speech.

When to Use Konjunktiv I vs Konjunktiv II

Konjunktiv I is primarily used in formal and written communication, and it changes the verb to signal that the information is reported speech. Konjunktiv II, which is often used in spoken German, can serve the same purpose when the Konjunktiv I forms are identical to the indicative mood.

Examples of Indirect Speech in German

Exceptions and Special Cases

Sometimes, especially in casual conversation, Germans may use the indicative mood instead of the subjunctive to make their speech sound more straightforward. In these cases, using a word like dass helps indicate that the sentence is reporting someone else's statement.

Conclusion

Understanding and using indirect speech in German can significantly enhance your communication skills, especially in formal writing and situations. With practice, recognizing when to use Konjunktiv I and Konjunktiv II will become more intuitive.