Definition of the word indirect speech

The concept of indirect speech, also known as reported speech, can be traced back to the historical development of the English language. In the Middle English period (1100-1500), English writers influenced by Latin grammar started to use quotations and conversational reports to convey ideas. However, the current usage of the term "indirect speech" dates back to the 18th century, when grammarians such as Michael Short (1714-1772) and Robert Lowth (1710-1787) introduced it. Short used the term "involved" for the concept, while Lowth called it "indirect discourse." Lowth's description of indirect speech was particularly influential, as he saw it as a way of making quotations less obtrusive and more appropriate for formal writing. He defined indirect speech as a means of reporting the substance of a speaker's words rather than simply repeating them, which allowed for greater accuracy, clarity, and flexibility in communication. Lowth's ideas gained popularity among grammarians and writers of the time, cementing the term "indirect speech" in the English language and solidifying its use in grammar and composition manuals. So, in a nutshell, the word "indirect speech" originated during the 18th century as a way of describing a grammatical concept related to reporting what someone else has said. Its current meaning and usage are a result of the influence of pioneering grammarians such as Michael Short and Robert Lowth.