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 | |
|---|---|
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| How long do you think it will take? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
