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 | |
|---|---|
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
