News & Rumors: Passive with Reporting Verbs (It is said that...)
Grammar Rule in 30 Seconds
Use reporting passives to distance yourself from information, common in news and formal reports to avoid taking personal responsibility for claims.
- Use 'It + passive verb + that-clause' for general statements: 'It is said that he is rich.'
- Use 'Subject + passive verb + to-infinitive' for personal focus: 'He is said to be rich.'
- Use 'to have + past participle' for past actions: 'She is thought to have left.'
Overview
It is said that... is a way to say things. It is an important English way. You use it to tell news. You do not say who told you. It means many people say it. Or it is a common story.
You use it to not say 'I say'. It makes your words sound fair. Or you can hide who said it. It can make your words strong. Or it can help share a story. This way helps you speak well.
Consider its utility in both academic discourse and everyday communication where the source is either unknown, irrelevant, or intentionally withheld. It is widely believed that artificial intelligence will transform many industries. Here, the focus is on the belief itself, not who holds it.
How This Grammar Works
Formation Pattern
People say that the economy is recovering. | It is said that the economy is recovering. |
They believed that the treasure was hidden. | It was believed that the treasure was hidden. |
Experts have reported that new data has emerged. | It has been reported that new data has emerged. |
The public expects that prices will rise. | It is expected that prices will rise. |
The media will allege that corruption is widespread. | It will be alleged that corruption is widespread. |
Many sources claim that the project may be delayed. | It is claimed that the project may be delayed. |
When To Use It
- 1Formal and Objective Reporting: In academic papers, news articles, official announcements, or professional correspondence, this construction lends an air of impartiality and authority. It positions the information as generally accepted or widely circulated, rather than as a personal assertion. This is particularly useful when the specific source is less important than the information itself. For instance, a scientific journal might state:
It is widely accepted that climate change is a significant global challenge.This avoids attributing the acceptance to any single scientist or group, presenting it as a consensus.
- 1Reporting Rumors, Beliefs, and General Knowledge: When information circulates without a definitive or attributable source, or when expressing common opinions, this structure is ideal. It allows you to relay information without vouching for its absolute veracity or pinpointing its origin, making it suitable for informal gossip or widespread cultural beliefs. Consider
It is rumored that the company will announce a merger soon.The use ofit is rumoredclearly signals that the information is unconfirmed but circulating. Similarly,It is believed that patience is a virtue in negotiations.attributes the belief to a general public, not a single individual.
- 1Avoiding Specific Attribution or Responsibility: Sometimes you know the source but prefer not to name them, perhaps to protect anonymity, maintain professionalism, or avoid personal involvement. This structure provides a discreet way to convey information. In a workplace context, an email might state:
It has been suggested that the deadline needs to be extended.This allows the suggestion to be communicated without singling out the individual who proposed it, fostering a sense of collective discussion rather than individual complaint.
- 1Emphasizing the Information Itself: By using
itas a dummy subject, the grammatical weight shifts entirely to thethat-clause. This structural choice prioritizes the content of the message over the messenger. For example, if you sayIt was reported that the satellite failed to launch, the failure of the satellite becomes the primary focus, rather than who reported it. This emphasis is critical in news media, where the event often overshadows the reporting entity.
Common Mistakes
- 1Incorrect Tense or Form of
to be: This is perhaps the most frequent error. Learners sometimes use the main verb in its present form (e.g.,It say that...) or incorrect tense agreement (e.g.,It was said that the meeting is tomorrow). Remember,to bemust agree withIt(always singular) and reflect the tense of the reporting. Always use the past participle of the reporting verb. For example, you must sayIt is believed that...(present belief) orIt was reported that...(past report), notIt believes that...orIt reported that....
- 1Omission of
thatin Formal Contexts: Whilethatcan be dropped in informal spoken English, its omission in formal writing or presentations can make the sentence sound less polished or even grammatically ambiguous. The C1 level demands precision. Always includethatafter the passive reporting verb in formal contexts for maximum clarity and adherence to academic or professional standards. For example,It is understood that the new software will improve efficiencyis preferable toIt is understood the new software will improve efficiencyin written reports.
- 1Confusion with the
Subject + be + said to be...Structure: This is a closely related but distinct C1 structure covered in other lessons, and learners often mix them up. TheIt is said that...structure usesitas a dummy subject and reports a clause (that + [full sentence]). TheSubject + be + said to be...structure uses a real subject and reports an infinitive phrase (to be...).
It is said that he is a brilliant scientist.(Reports a general belief about his status.)He is said to be a brilliant scientist.(Focuses on him, reporting what is said about his quality.)
- 1Overuse and Stylistic Repetition: While useful, excessive reliance on
It is said that...can make your writing monotonous, overly formal, and distant. A sophisticated writer varies sentence structures and reporting mechanisms. Mix it with other reporting strategies, such as direct speech (where appropriate), active reporting verbs (Sources indicate...), or other passive constructions. For example, instead ofIt is believed that profits will increase. It is also believed that new markets will open. It is generally understood that the company is expanding., tryAnalysts believe profits will increase, and new markets are expected to open. Overall, the company's expansion is generally understood.
- 1Using Non-Reporting Verbs: This construction is specifically for verbs that convey information or opinion. Using verbs not typically associated with reporting can sound unnatural. Stick to verbs like
say,believe,know,report,think,expect,allege,understand,claim,suggest,estimate. You wouldn't typically say*It is walked that....
Real Conversations
Far from being confined to academic papers or formal news reports, the It is said that... structure (and its variations) permeates modern English across various registers. Its adaptability makes it a valuable tool in both professional and casual communication.
- Workplace Communication (Email/Meeting): In a professional setting, this structure can soften demands or report unconfirmed but relevant information without putting anyone on the spot. For example, in an email discussing a project delay: It is understood that the software update encountered unexpected compatibility issues. This reports the problem objectively without assigning blame. Similarly, It has been suggested that we revise the timeline for Phase 2. This politely introduces a proposal that might have come from a specific person but is presented as a collective idea.
- Social Media/Online Forums: While online discourse often favors directness, this structure can be used for spreading news, rumors, or general opinions, especially when the source is a topic of discussion itself. A post might read: It is rumored that the new game update will include a major character rework. This implicitly invites speculation without claiming definitive knowledge. Or, more formally, It is widely acknowledged that misinformation spreads rapidly on these platforms.
- News and Documentaries: This is a staple in journalism, allowing reporters to convey information without revealing confidential sources or to present commonly held beliefs. In a news report: It is believed that the missing hiker spent the night in a remote cabin. In a documentary: For centuries, it was thought that the Earth was the center of the universe, a belief deeply embedded in cultural understanding.
- Everyday Dialogue/Gossip: Even in casual conversation, the structure surfaces when discussing general perceptions, local gossip, or shared knowledge. For instance, It's said that the new coffee shop downtown has amazing pastries. This is a polite way to share positive feedback without needing to say My friend told me... or Someone told me.... Similarly, It's generally known that Professor Davies gives challenging exams. This implies a collective awareness within a university student body.
- Interviews (Job or Investigative): Interviewers may use it to gauge a candidate's response to commonly held perceptions: It is often said that this role requires strong adaptability. How do you demonstrate that quality? In investigative journalism, it can introduce sensitive information: It has been alleged that company funds were misappropriated. This carefully frames a serious claim without making it a direct accusation by the reporter.
These examples illustrate that the structure is not merely a grammatical exercise but a versatile communicative strategy, reflecting how speakers and writers navigate attribution, authority, and inference in real-world contexts.
Quick FAQ
- Q: Can I use reporting verbs other than
say? - A: Absolutely. Many verbs that convey information, opinion, or perception can be used. Common examples include
believe,know,report,think,expect,allege,understand,claim,suggest, andestimate. The choice depends on the nuance you want to convey about the nature of the reported information. For instance,It is estimated that profits will increase by 10%.
- Q: Is
thatalways necessary afterIt is said? - A: In formal written English and for clarity, yes,
thatshould almost always be included. While native speakers sometimes omit it in informal speech, particularly when the clause is short, its presence ensures precise meaning and maintains a C1-level standard of formality.It is reported that the flight is delayed.is clearer thanIt is reported the flight is delayed.
- Q: What's the core difference between
It is said that...andPeople say that...? - A:
People say that...is an active construction that explicitly names a general but unspecified agent. It's more direct and typically less formal.It is said that...is an impersonal passive construction that focuses entirely on the reported statement, making it more objective and formal. The emphasis shifts from the people to the statement itself.People say he's lucky(informal, emphasizes the people) vs.It is said that he is lucky(more formal, emphasizes the belief).
- Q: Can I use this structure with any tense?
- A: Yes, the
to beverb dictates the tense of the reporting action. You can use it in the present (It is said), past (It was said), present perfect (It has been said), future (It will be said), or even with modals (It may be said,It should be said). The tense of the clause followingthatthen describes the actual reported event's timing. For example,It has been said that the company is struggling(past reporting, present situation) orIt was believed that the earth was flat(past belief, past situation).
- Q: How formal or informal is this structure?
- A: Generally,
It is said that...leans towards formal or semi-formal contexts due to its objective and impersonal nature. However, it can appear in informal speech when discussing widespread rumors or common knowledge, as demonstrated in the 'Real Conversations' section. Its use adds a layer of indirectness that can be useful in any register.
- Q: Should I use this for my personal opinions?
- A: No. This structure is specifically for reporting what others say or what is generally believed. It implies a degree of separation from the information's origin. If you want to express your own opinion, use direct phrasing like
I think that...,I believe that..., orIn my opinion.... UsingIt is said that...for your own views would be grammatically correct but highly misleading and stylistically odd, implying your opinion is a widely held belief or rumor.
- Q: Are there other similar structures?
- A: Yes, as mentioned, the
Subject + be + said to be...construction is very similar but focuses on the subject being reported about (e.g.,He is said to be intelligent). Another related structure, often used for legal or official reports, isIt is alleged that..., which implies an accusation without proof. Mastering these variations allows for even greater precision in reporting.It is often alleged that the politician made false promises.
Formation of Reporting Passives
| Structure Type | Formula | Example (Present) | Example (Past Action) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Impersonal
|
It + is/was + V-ed + that...
|
It is said that he is rich.
|
It is said that he was rich.
|
|
Personal
|
Subj + is/was + V-ed + to + V
|
He is said to be rich.
|
He is said to have been rich.
|
|
Continuous
|
Subj + is + V-ed + to be + V-ing
|
He is said to be working.
|
He is said to have been working.
|
|
Passive Inf.
|
Subj + is + V-ed + to be + V-ed
|
He is said to be loved.
|
He is said to have been loved.
|
Meanings
A formal way to report what people say, think, or believe without mentioning the specific source of the information. It creates an objective, journalistic tone.
Impersonal Reporting
Using 'It' as a dummy subject to introduce a general belief or fact.
“It is reported that the CEO has resigned.”
“It was once thought that the Earth was flat.”
Personal Reporting
Focusing on the person or thing being talked about by making them the subject.
“The suspect is believed to be hiding in the woods.”
“She is said to be the best doctor in the city.”
Past Action Reporting
Reporting a past action using a perfect infinitive (to have + past participle).
“He is alleged to have stolen the documents.”
“The company is rumored to have gone bankrupt last month.”
Reference Table
| Form | Structure | Example |
|---|---|---|
|
Affirmative (It)
|
It + is + believed + that...
|
It is believed that she is innocent.
|
|
Affirmative (Personal)
|
Subject + is + believed + to...
|
She is believed to be innocent.
|
|
Negative (It)
|
It + is not + thought + that...
|
It is not thought that the plan will work.
|
|
Negative (Personal)
|
Subject + is not + thought + to...
|
The plan is not thought to work.
|
|
Question (It)
|
Is it + said + that...?
|
Is it said that the ghost haunts this house?
|
|
Question (Personal)
|
Is + Subject + said + to...?
|
Is the ghost said to haunt this house?
|
|
Past Action
|
Subject + is + alleged + to have + V-ed
|
He is alleged to have broken the law.
|
Formality Spectrum
It is rumored that a new model will be released in September. (Tech news)
A new model is expected to come out in September. (Tech news)
They say a new iPhone is coming in September. (Tech news)
Word is a new iPhone drops in Sept. (Tech news)
Reporting Verbs Ecosystem
Verbs of Thought
- Think Thought
- Believe Believed
- Consider Considered
Verbs of Speech
- Say Said
- Report Reported
- Allege Alleged
Active vs. Passive Reporting
Choosing the Right Infinitive
Is the action happening now?
Did the action happen in the past?
Examples by Level
People say he is nice.
They say it is cold there.
My friends say she is a doctor.
Everyone says the food is good.
It is said that he is a hero.
It is known that water is healthy.
It is thought that they are happy.
It is reported that the rain will stop.
He is said to be very rich.
It is believed that the team will win.
The movie is thought to be excellent.
It was reported that the road was closed.
The company is expected to grow this year.
It is understood that the meeting is cancelled.
She is rumored to have quit her job.
The fossils are believed to be millions of years old.
The diplomat is alleged to have accepted bribes.
It is widely considered that his theory is flawed.
The suspect is understood to be cooperating with police.
The manuscript is thought to have been written in the 14th century.
The Prime Minister is purported to be considering a reshuffle.
It has long been asserted that economic growth is the only metric of success.
The artifact was previously reputed to possess magical properties.
The virus is now known to have been circulating months before the first official case.
Easily Confused
Learners use 'People say' in formal essays where 'It is said' is required.
Mixing the 'that' clause with the 'to' infinitive.
Using 'to be' for something that happened in the past.
Common Mistakes
People is said he is rich.
People say he is rich.
It says that he is rich.
It is said that he is rich.
He is said that he is rich.
He is said to be rich.
He is believed to steal the money yesterday.
He is believed to have stolen the money yesterday.
Sentence Patterns
It is ___ that ___.
The suspect is ___ to have ___.
___ is widely considered to be ___.
It was once ___ that ___.
Real World Usage
It is reported that the ceasefire has been broken.
The results are thought to be significant.
She is rumored to be getting a promotion.
The suspect is alleged to have used a stolen vehicle.
The city is believed to have been founded in 500 BC.
It is said that the servers are down again.
The 'Alleged' Shortcut
Avoid 'It is said him'
Use for Hedging
Softening Bad News
Smart Tips
Switch your 'People say' to 'It is reported that'. It immediately elevates your register.
Always check if you need 'to have'. If the event is over, 'to have' is your best friend.
Try to rewrite it using the subject of the 'that' clause to practice the personal construction.
Use 'widely' or 'generally' to sound even more native-like.
Pronunciation
Weak 'to'
In the personal construction, the word 'to' is usually reduced to a schwa /tə/.
Stress on the Reporting Verb
The main stress usually falls on the reporting verb (said, thought, believed) to emphasize the nature of the report.
Falling intonation for facts
It is reported that the king is ↘ dead.
Conveys a serious, final piece of news.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Remember 'It' is for the whole 'that' clause, but 'He' needs a 'to' to reach the verb.
Visual Association
Imagine a news anchor sitting behind a desk. They aren't saying 'I think', they are pointing to a screen that says 'IT IS REPORTED'. The anchor is a shield between you and the raw rumor.
Rhyme
When rumors fly and news is spread, 'It is said' is what is read.
Story
A detective is investigating a crime. He doesn't have proof yet, so he tells his boss, 'The suspect is believed to have fled.' This way, if the suspect is actually still in town, the detective isn't blamed for a false statement—he was just reporting a belief.
Word Web
Challenge
Write three sentences about a famous celebrity using 'is rumored to', 'is thought to have', and 'it is said that'.
Cultural Notes
The BBC uses 'It is understood that...' very frequently when they have a reliable source but cannot name them yet.
Using 'It is thought' or 'It has been suggested' is a form of 'hedging'. It makes the writer sound humble and open to other scientific possibilities.
The word 'alleged' is legally required in news reports before a conviction to avoid 'libel' (being sued for lying).
These structures evolved from Latin impersonal passives (e.g., 'dicitur' meaning 'it is said').
Conversation Starters
What is something that is said to be true about your country, but isn't?
Which celebrity is rumored to be the most difficult to work with?
It is often thought that technology makes us lonely. Do you agree?
Is there a place in your city that is said to be haunted?
Journal Prompts
Common Mistakes
Test Yourself
He is thought ___ (be) the mastermind behind the robbery.
Find and fix the mistake:
It is believed him to have left the country.
People say that the company is losing money. (The company...)
The building is thought ___ in the fire.
You can use the verb 'want' in the 'It is wanted that...' reporting passive structure.
A: Is the new boss nice? B: Well, she ___ very strict.
Match each item on the left with its pair on the right:
Score: /8
Practice Exercises
8 exercisesHe is thought ___ (be) the mastermind behind the robbery.
Find and fix the mistake:
It is believed him to have left the country.
People say that the company is losing money. (The company...)
The building is thought ___ in the fire.
You can use the verb 'want' in the 'It is wanted that...' reporting passive structure.
A: Is the new boss nice? B: Well, she ___ very strict.
1. People think he is a spy. 2. People think he was a spy.
Score: /8
Practice Bank
11 exercisesIt ___ that the ancient city holds many undiscovered secrets.
It reported that the meeting was postponed.
Which sentence is correct?
Translate into English: 'Se dice que la lectura amplía la mente.'
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Match the subject with its correct continuation:
It is ___ that the company will announce a merger soon.
It is said that dinosaurs was extinct millions of years ago.
Select the appropriate sentence:
Translate: 'Está ampliamente aceptado que el café es adictivo.'
Arrange these words into a sentence:
Score: /11
FAQ (8)
No, only 'reporting verbs' related to thinking (believe, think, consider), saying (say, report, allege), or knowing (know, understand). You can't use verbs like 'eat' or 'run'.
Yes, but 'It is said that' is much more formal and common in writing, while 'They say' is common in spoken English.
Use it when the action you are reporting happened *before* the reporting. For example: 'He is said (now) to have been (past) a soldier.'
To avoid legal trouble. If they say 'He is a thief' before a trial, they can be sued. If they say 'He is the alleged thief', they are just reporting what the police say.
Yes. 'He is not thought to be dangerous' or 'It is not believed that the plan will work.'
Absolutely. It is standard in all varieties of formal English, including American, British, and Australian.
'Thought' is a general belief, while 'considered' often implies a more deliberate opinion or a widely held social view.
Yes, for continuous actions. 'The fugitive is thought to be hiding in the mountains.'
Scaffolded Practice
1
2
3
4
Mastery Progress
Needs Practice
Improving
Strong
Mastered
In Other Languages
Se dice que...
Spanish lacks the 'Subject + Passive + To-Infinitive' structure.
On dit que...
French prefers active voice with an indefinite subject ('on').
Er soll... sein
German uses a modal verb ('sollen') instead of a passive reporting verb.
...to iwarete iru (〜と言われている)
Japanese word order is reversed, with the rumor coming before the verb.
Yuqal anna... (يُقال أن)
Arabic almost always uses the impersonal 'It' structure, rarely the personal one.
Jushuo... (据说)
Chinese uses a fixed phrase rather than a conjugated passive verb.
Learning Path
Prerequisites
Related Videos
Related Grammar Rules
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