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 have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you know how the girls are getting to Soho? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| When do you think you are going to look for houses again? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you know how much the tickets are? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
