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? | |
| Don't you think it's better to live upstairs? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Do you know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
