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PreciousJones Posted 15 years ago
Grammar

Package

I'm talking to a USPS agent on the phone about a previous phone conversation:

"The 1-800 customer service agent told me I cannot pick up the package." Or

"The 1-800 customer service agent told me I couldn't pick up the package."

I would use the first one but it seems the 2nd is correct?

I'm trying to pick up a package tmrw.
  

Top answer

Hi, Both are OK. I suggest #1, as the focus is on the present truth of what was said. Clive

— Clive

  • Hi, Both are OK.
  • I suggest #1, as the focus is on the present truth of what was said.
  • Clive
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3 Answers
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Hi,

Both are OK.

I suggest #1, as the focus is on the present truth of what was said.

Clive
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Both are fine.

The second is used in reported speech. If you wish to emphasize the present condition, then use the first sentence;

otherwise, use the second.

Regards
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Hi,

Both are fine. The second sentence is used in reported speech.

If you wish to emphasize the current condition, you'd better go with the first sentence.

Otherwise, you can use the second. It's up to you.

Regards
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