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 | |
|---|---|
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Do you know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| When do you think you are going to look for houses again? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
