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 why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| When do you think you are going to look for houses again? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
