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 | |
|---|---|
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
