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 | |
|---|---|
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Don't you think we can get a house for 1200 per month. | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Do you know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
