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 if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Don't you think we can get a house for 1200 per month. | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
