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.

From Project Gutenberg

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.

From Project Gutenberg

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.

From New York Times

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

From Project Gutenberg

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

From Project Gutenberg