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 think she is good? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Do you know why they built this enormous pier? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you know how old this station is? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
