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 | |
|---|---|
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| Yeah, I forgot that, when do you think we can meet, then? | |
| Does it mean you are going to ask for some commission? | |
| Do you think we can let him go out? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you think we should see the next house? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| That's insane, do you think we can negotiate the prices? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Don't you think he is a nice guy? | |
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| How long do you think it's going to take to be ready? | |
| Don't you think it's better to live upstairs? | |
| When do you think you will be leaving? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you think they are doing fine? | |
