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 | |
|---|---|
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| How long do you think it will take? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| When do you think you are going to look for houses again? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
