How do we form indirect questions?

1. Polite Phrase

2. Wh- question word OR if/whether

3. A positive phrase

    

Examples of polite phrases:

Could you tell me…

Would you mind telling me….

Do you mind if I ask…

 

Wh- question words include; what, where, when, etc

These are used for open questions. Open questions have more than two possible answers.

 

If or whether are used for closed questions.

Closed questions are yes or no questions.

 

Positive phrases include; the time is, the station is, he did, she said etc

 

Changing Direct (normal) questions into Indirect (polite) questions

Direct Question: What time is it?

Indirect Question:1. Could you tell me… 2. what 3. time it is?

 

Direct: What is your age?

Indirect:Could you tell me what your age is?

 

Direct: Where is Trinity College?

Indirect: Could you tell me where Trinity College is?

 

Direct: Are you married?

Indirect: Would you mind telling me if you are married?

 

Notice in these examples that the final part of the indirect question is not in interrogative form. This is where students make most mistakes. Example:

Could you tell me what is the time? (incorrect)

Could you tell me what time it is? (correct)