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 think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you know how much the tickets are? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
