What Are Indirect Questions?
Indirect questions are a polite way to ask for information. Instead of asking directly, you report the question. They are very common in conversations, especially when you want to sound polite or formal. For example, instead of asking 'Where is the bathroom?', you can ask 'Could you tell me where the bathroom is?' The word order changes—it becomes a statement order, not a question order.
Examples — page 1 of 3
Could you tell me how to get to the nearest hospital?
Polite request for directions · A2
Do you know what time the restaurant opens for dinner?
Asking about opening hours · Everyday
I was wondering if you could help me with this task.
Very polite request · Formal
Can you tell me where the fitting rooms are?
Shopping situation · Casual
Would you mind telling me when the meeting starts?
Polite workplace question · Formal
I'd like to know if you're free tomorrow evening.
Making plans · Casual
Could you explain why the client decided to cancel their contract?
Work question · Professional
Do you happen to know who is responsible for the marketing?
Office question · Polite
I wonder if you could tell me your phone number?
Getting contact information · Polite
Could you let me know whether you'll attend the party?
Event RSVP · Casual
Signal words
Could you tell me
Do you know
I was wondering if
Can you tell me
Would you mind telling me
I'd like to know
Could you explain
Do you happen to know
I wonder if
Could you let me know
whether
if
KEY TAKEAWAYS
What to Remember
- Indirect questions use statement word order, not question word order (subject before verb).
- Use polite introductions like "Could you tell me," "Do you know," or "I wonder" before the question.
- Never use a question mark at the end of an indirect question; use a period instead.
- Don't use the auxiliary verb "do/does" in indirect questions, even in present simple tense.
- Include the question word (where, what, why, how) in indirect questions unless asking yes/no questions.