English (UK)
In English, in more formal situations, we often use indirect questions because they sound more polite.
To make a question more polite we often begin with an indirect question phrase such as:
Example questions :
DIRECT QUESTION : Where is the post office?
INDIRECT QUESTION : Do you know where the post office is?
DIRECT QUESTION : What's the time?
INDIRECT QUESTION : Could you tell me what the time is?
DIRECT QUESTION : Does this train go to Brighton?
INDIRECT QUESTION : Can you tell me if this train goes to Brighton?
DIRECT QUESTION : Is there a bank nearby?
INDIRECT QUESTION : Have you any idea whether there is a bank nearby?
Note for use of indirect questions :
If the direct question begins with an auxiliary verb ( no question word), add 'if' or 'whether' after an indirect question phrase to make the question indirect.
We don't use 'if' or whether with Do you think...?
eg. Do you think he's gone to London? NOT Do you think if he's gone to London?
| Indirect question example sentences | |
|---|---|
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
