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? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you know how much the tickets are? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Do you know how the girls are getting to Soho? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Don't you think we can get a house for 1200 per month. | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
