🎯 Indirect Questions Practice

For English Language Learners

📚 What are Indirect Questions?

Indirect questions are more polite and formal ways to ask for information. Instead of asking directly, we use phrases to make our questions softer and more respectful.

💡 Cultural Note:

In many cultures, being polite is very important. Indirect questions in English help make your speech more respectful and appropriate, especially with strangers, in formal situations, or when making requests.

Common Indirect Question Patterns:

Pattern 1: Could you tell me...?

Direct: "Where is the bank?"

Indirect: "Could you tell me where the bank is?"

Pattern 2: Do you know...?

Direct: "What time does the store close?"

Indirect: "Do you know what time the store closes?"

Pattern 3: I was wondering...

Direct: "Can I have a day off?"

Indirect: "I was wondering if I could have a day off."

🔑 Important Grammar Rule:

In indirect questions, use STATEMENT word order, not question word order!

✅ Correct: "Do you know where the bank is?"

❌ Wrong: "Do you know where is the bank?"

(Think: Subject + Verb, like in normal sentences)

🎯 Practice 1: Choose the Correct Indirect Question

Score: 0/0

✏️ Practice 2: Transform Direct to Indirect Questions

Change these direct questions into polite indirect questions:

💎 Pro Tips for English Learners

🌟 When to Use Indirect Questions:

  • Asking strangers for directions
  • Requesting information at work
  • Speaking to teachers or supervisors
  • Making requests in shops or restaurants
  • When you're not sure if someone can help
  • In formal or professional situations

Useful Phrases:

Very Polite:

• "Excuse me, could you please tell me...?"

• "I'm sorry to bother you, but do you know...?"

• "Would it be possible for you to tell me...?"

Polite (most common):

• "Do you know...?"

• "Could you tell me...?"

• "Can you tell me...?"

Casual but polite:

• "I was wondering..."

• "Do you happen to know...?"