Definition

Noun: A sentence that asks a question and expects a reply. It is a type of sentence used to request information, confirmation, or clarification. The term is synonymous with "question."

Usage

An interrogative sentence is used to elicit a response from the listener or reader. It typically ends with a question mark (?). The structure often involves inversion of the subject and auxiliary verb (e.g., "Are you ready?") or begins with a question word like who, what, where, when, why, or how.

Examples

• "What time is the meeting?"
• "Did you finish your homework?"
• "Where is the nearest post office?"
• "Is this your book?"

Advanced Usage

• Rhetorical Question: An interrogative sentence asked for effect with no expectation of an answer, often to make a point.
  • "How could you be so careless?"
• Tag Question: A short question added to the end of a declarative statement to seek confirmation.
  • "It's a beautiful day, isn't it?"

Variants and Related Words

• Interrogative (Adjective): Relating to questions. (e.g., an tone of voice).
• Interrogative (Noun): A word used in asking questions, such as "who," "what," or "which."
• Interrogation (Noun): The formal or systematic act of questioning.
• Question (Noun): A sentence worded or expressed to seek information; a direct synonym for "interrogative sentence."

Synonyms

• Question
• Inquiry
• Query

Related Phrases

• Direct Question: A straightforward interrogative sentence, as opposed to an indirect question (e.g., "I wonder what time it is").
  • "He asked a direct question: 'Where were you last night?'"
• Open-ended Question: An interrogative sentence that requires a detailed response, not just "yes" or "no."
  • "How did you solve that problem?" is an open-ended question.
• Closed Question: An interrogative sentence that can typically be answered with "yes," "no," or a single piece of information.
  • "Do you agree?" is a closed question.

Noun

1. a sentence of inquiry that asks for a reply
   • he asked a direct question
   • he had trouble phrasing his interrogations