If we want to ask a question that is more polite than a regular direct question, we can use indirect questions. In indirect questions we take away the auxiliary verb do in Present/Past Simple questions. If you use does, remember to put the final ‘s’ on the end of your verb.
Form
In a direct question, we use the structure verb + subject.
With indirect questions, we use subject + verb .
|
Do you know I wonder Would you mind telling me Can / Could you tell me |
where why which when who what how if / whether |
subject |
verb |
Be verb (Full & Auxiliary)
| Direct (v + s) | Indirect (s + v) |
|---|---|
|
When is your birthday? Why was he shouting? |
Could you tell me when your birthday is? Do you know why he was shouting? |
Do verb
| Direct (v + s) | Indirect (s + v) |
|---|---|
|
When do you use your credit card? How does she know my brother? Why did they choose to hire a real estate agent? |
Would you mind telling me when you use your credit card? Do you know how she knows my brother? I wonder why they chose to hire a real estate agent? |
Have verb
| Direct (v + s) | Indirect (s + v) |
|---|---|
|
Where have you gotten this type of treatment? What has she done to prepare for the interview? |
Can you tell me where you have gotten this type of treatment? Do you know what she has done to prepare for the interview? |
Yes / No questions
We use if/whether instead of a question words (what, when etc…).
| Direct (v + s) | Indirect (s + v) |
|---|---|
|
Does your mom prefer tea or coffee? |
Do you know if your mom prefers tea or coffee? |
Can
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