TextRanch

The best way to perfect your writing.

Discover why 1,062,726 users count on TextRanch to get their English corrected!

1. Input your text below.
2. Get it corrected in a few minutes by our editors.
3. Improve your English!

One of our experts will correct your English.

Our experts

he told me he will be unable to reach me vs he told me that he will be unable to reach me

Both phrases are correct, but the second one is more commonly used in English. The addition of 'that' in the second phrase helps to introduce the reported speech more clearly. However, the first phrase is also grammatically correct and can be used in informal contexts.

Last updated: March 23, 2024

he told me he will be unable to reach me

This phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in informal contexts.

This phrase is a direct reporting of what someone said without the use of 'that' to introduce the reported speech. It is commonly used in informal conversations.

Alternatives:

  • he told me he would be unable to reach me
  • he told me he is unable to reach me

he told me that he will be unable to reach me

This phrase is more commonly used in English as it introduces the reported speech more clearly.

This phrase includes the conjunction 'that' to introduce the reported speech, making it clearer and more formal. It is the preferred choice in written English.

Alternatives:

  • he told me that he would be unable to reach me
  • he informed me that he will be unable to reach me
  • he said he will be unable to reach me

Related Comparisons

What Our Customers Are Saying

Our customers love us! We have an average rating of 4.79 stars based on 283,125 votes.
Also check out our 2,100+ reviews on TrustPilot (4.9TextRanch on TrustPilot).

Why choose TextRanch?

Lowest prices
Up to 50% lower than other online editing sites.

Fastest Times
Our team of editors is working for you 24/7.

Qualified Editors
Native English experts for UK or US English.

Top Customer Service
We are here to help. Satisfaction guaranteed!