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 we can get a house for 1200 per month. | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| How much do you think there is? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| 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 it will help us get a table? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| How many people do you think you are going to cook for? | |
