alleryStart learning →Batman said, "I need a key." Batman said that he ___ a key.
Awill need
Bis needing
Chas needed
Dneeded
Answer & Solution
Correct answer: D. needed
The past reporting verb said calls for the past tense needed in the reported clause.
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Related questions
Which words are liable to change when speech is reported?A direct verb already in the past perfect, once reported, becomesIn the future-in-the-past, will and shall change toTense changes in reporting arise when the verb of saying is in theWhich situation favours keeping the original tense after "said"?Batman has said that he needs a key. No backshift occurs as the main verb is"I need a key," says Batman. "Needs" stays because the main verb isIn indirect speech, pronouns and place words suit the context of