Do you know what an interrogative sentence is? This article will provide you with all of the information you need on interrogative sentences, including its definition, usage, example sentences, and more!
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According to Thought Co, in English grammar, a interrogative sentence is a type of sentence that asks a question in opposition to a sentence that makes a statement known as a declarative statement or declarative sentence, delivers a command like an imperative sentence, or exclaims something. These are usually denoted by ending in a question mark or interrogation mark at the end of the sentence and inversion of the word order of the subject and predicate. These often use an auxiliary verb or helping verb in addition to the main verb. There are also what are called negative polar interrogatives, a different type of interrogative sentence which is used to confirm something that the speaker believes or expects to be the case. This is formed with the word not and often contains verbs ending in n’t. These often contain wh-questions formed by a wh-word, like who, what, where, when and why.
Interrogatives can contain direct question types, indirect questions, multiple choice question, alternative question, asks an open-ended question with an open-ended answer, a complex question with a complex explanation, a complete thought with a simple response and more. The function of interrogative sentences is to obtain new information in the response. The ending of a declarative statement is a period, while the ending of an alternative interrogative sentence or simple interrogative is a question mark.
What is an example of an interrogative sentence?
An interrogative sentence can be used in many different contexts in the English language. Trying to use a word or literary technique in a sentence is one of the best ways to memorize what it is, but you can also try making flashcards or quizzes that test your knowledge. Try using this term of the day in a sentence today! Below are a couple of examples of interrogative sentences that can help get you started incorporating this tool into your everyday use. Take a look at these interrogative sentence examples from Your Dictionary!
If you had to give up chocolate or steak, which would you choose?
What kind of music do you listen to?
Do you prefer vanilla ice cream over other flavors?
Are you going to the game Friday night?
Did you have a problem finding parking?
Wherefore art thou Romeo? – Romeo & Juliet
How are you today?
Where is your new cat?
Did you eat lunch yet?
Why is the sky blue?
She’s an excellent violinist, isn’t she?
To whom shall I give the test results?
Are your shoes on?
There’s no food in your bag, is there?
Do you think I should go home or stay a little longer?
Is she mad or just tired?
Where did I leave my car keys?
Which is the best route to the circus?
Did the girls get to school on time?
When are the best days to go to the mall?
Who did you give the last cookie to?
Tidy up the kitchen, won’t you?
Would you like cookies or a banana for dessert?
You’re a cute one, aren’t you?
Was the movie enjoyable?
Whose socks are these?
What is the right way to iron a shirt?
Will you be home soon, or should I eat without you?
Why did Suzie leave so late?
Who is the best shortstop in the Major Leagues?
Were you too late?
Why was she so grumpy yesterday?
You think you’re so smart, don’t you?
Is the dog okay, or should we go to the vet?
Has this day at the Boston mall been one of the best days, or is it just me?
What are other literary techniques and devices?
There are many different literary and grammatical techniques and devices that you might see when you are reading prose or poetry. It is important to recognize these terms because they are always used for some purpose. Knowing these devices can help readers understand the author’s deeper meaning and why they are using such a device. Take a look at the below list of grammatical devices from OED and see how many you know! Then try researching ones that are unfamiliar to you.
Kevin Miller is a growth marketer with an extensive background in Search Engine Optimization, paid acquisition and email marketing. He is also an online editor and writer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He studied at Georgetown University, worked at Google and became infatuated with English Grammar and for years has been diving into the language, demystifying the do's and don'ts for all who share the same passion! He can be found online here.
Kevin
December 12, 2021
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