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 | |
|---|---|
| Can you tell me where you are taking me first? | |
| When do you think we can have the meeting? | |
| Can you explain why we have to pay £30 more per week please? | |
| Can you please tell me where it is? | |
| How much do you think renting a house would cost? | |
| Do you think I should take Pogo out of his box? | |
| Do you think we can find it there? | |
| Do you know what time it is? | |
| Do you know what colour the packet is? | |
| Don't you think you are getting a bit too angry? | |
| Erm, what do you think she could do to them? | |
| Do you know where the kitchen is? | |
| Do you think it will help us get a table? | |
| Yes, I'm ready, do you think I'll need a jacket? | |
| Do you think we should pay for it? | |
| I'm still checking, do you think I can try some bugs here? | |
| Do you think you are a good cook? | |
| Who would? Can you tell me where you want to live then? | |
| Do you know how much the tickets are? | |
| How long do you think it will take? | |
