What are the modes of speaking?

Answer 1

1st person: "I took out the knife and threatened the man who had murdered my dog."

This is used to describe a situation from the point of view of one person as if the person were telling the story. It can be used in fiction, non-fiction, letters, and affidavits. This is a useful form for describing a situation when the emotional workings of the person speaking is important.

2nd person: "You then take the knife and threaten the man standing before you."

2nd person is most often used when giving directions in correspondence, or when playing a text adventure computer game. It is not widely used in fiction.

3rd person subjective: "Jason took out the knife and brandished it toward the man, not knowing if he could actually go through with it."

This mode is widely used in fiction where certain details and language can be described from the point of view of an outside observer who is following one character. The inner thoughts of the subject can be revealed to an extent, as well as details and language which a person would not normally describe. This mode is very useful in mysteries.

3rd person objective/omniscient: "Jason brandished the knife, not knowing his adversary was concealing a pistol in his coat."

This is sometimes known as "Voice of God." The author reveals everything about the scene pertinent to the story line. This is useful in narrating minute detail, but can give away some of the suspense in writing.

The choice of mode should be appropriate to your intention, but as with most art, there is no "wrong" choice.

Answer 2

The modes of speaking refer to four main styles of communication: descriptive (providing facts or details), narrative (telling a story or sequence of events), expository (explaining or informing), and persuasive (convincing or influencing others). Each mode serves a different purpose and can be used depending on the context and audience.