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 we should pay for it? | |
| Where do you think we can get a house? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Do you know how the girls are getting to Soho? | |
| Do you think we should buy it? | |
| It's seven thirty! Who do you think it could be? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| But why do you think we should leave the house? | |
| Do you think it's a good idea? | |
| Hey, don't you think Diego would like to join us, too? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Do you think she is good? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Can you tell me, Nick, how much they pay, please? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Do you think we should make a reservation? | |
