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 know what time it is? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| When do you think you are going to look for houses again? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| 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? | |
