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? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Do you know if he has got a girlfriend? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you know how much the tickets are? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Don't you think it's better to live upstairs? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
