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 | |
|---|---|
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| How long do you think it will take? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
