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 know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
