Definition & Meaning of "direct speech"

What is "direct speech"?

Direct speech is a way of reporting what someone has said by quoting their exact words. It typically involves using quotation marks to enclose the spoken words, allowing the speaker's original expression to be preserved. For example, in the sentence, Sarah said, "I will go to the store," the phrase within the quotation marks represents Sarah's exact words. Direct speech is often used in writing to convey dialogue in a clear and engaging manner, allowing readers to hear the voices of the characters and understand their thoughts and emotions. This technique is commonly found in literature, journalism, and everyday communication.