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 | |
|---|---|
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
