direct discourse

[dih-rekt dis-kawrs, dahy-]

noun

1. a representation of speech in which the speaker's exact words are repeated, as in She said, “I'm not at all hungry.”

Word History and Origins

Origin of direct discourse¹

First recorded in 1845–50

Example Sentences

We thus have all the advantages of direct discourse, all the gain in reality—without a hint as to what will be the fate of the leading actors.

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Change the following from indirect to direct discourse and paragraph: When Whittier went on his first fishing trip, it was a day in early summer.

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The transcript of the program is online, but this is a case where I really think the video must be watched to catch the tone of the exchanges and the value of direct discourse.

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In preparing his direct discourse he did not stick a stake and cart material to it.

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Note the characteristic change of person, the transition from indirect to direct discourse.

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