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 how much the tickets are? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
