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 think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
