How to Use Reported Speech and Indirect Statements in Indonesian

Understanding Reported Speech in Indonesian

Reported speech, also known as indirect speech, is used to convey what someone else has said without quoting their exact words. In Indonesian, reported speech is commonly formed by using verbs like katanya (he/she said) or berkata (to say) followed by the statement.

Basic Structure of Reported Speech

The typical structure involves the reporting verb followed by the reported clause. Unlike English, Indonesian does not require changes in verb tense or pronouns in reported speech, making it simpler in many cases.

Example:
Direct speech: Dia berkata, "Saya lapar."
Reported speech: Dia berkata bahwa dia lapar.
Translation: He said that he was hungry.

Using 'Bahwa' to Introduce Indirect Statements

The word bahwa (that) is often used to introduce indirect statements in Indonesian, similar to English. However, it is optional and can be omitted in casual speech.

Example:
Dia mengatakan bahwa dia akan datang.
He said that he will come.
Or simply:
Dia mengatakan dia akan datang.

Common Reporting Verbs

Some common verbs used in reported speech include:

• katanya - he/she said
• berkata - to say
• mengatakan - to say
• menyatakan - to state

No Tense Change in Reported Speech

Unlike English, Indonesian verbs do not change tense in reported speech. The time reference is usually understood from context or indicated by time adverbs.

Example:
Direct: Dia berkata, "Saya pergi kemarin."
Reported: Dia berkata bahwa dia pergi kemarin.
Translation: He said that he went yesterday.

Pronouns in Reported Speech

Pronouns in Indonesian reported speech usually change to match the perspective of the reporter, similar to English.

Example:
Direct: Saya suka buku ini. (I like this book.)
Reported: Dia berkata bahwa dia suka buku itu. (He said that he likes that book.)

Practice Examples

Try converting these direct sentences into reported speech:

1. "Saya senang belajar bahasa Indonesia," kata Ani.
2. "Mereka akan datang besok," kata Budi.
3. "Kami sudah makan," kata mereka.