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 | |
|---|---|
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Can you tell me what you are planning then? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Do you have a plan about what you are going to do now? | |
| Do you really think you want to solve the problem? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Do you think we should buy the return tickets now? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
