GR – embedded questions part 2

In part 2 of this GrammarReminder series on embedded questions, let’s review how to embed yes/no questions. To see how to embed information questions, check out our post on August 22, 2011.To embed yes/no questions, we also need to switch the subject and the verb. In addition, we have to add the words “if” or “whether (or not)”. If and whether mean the same in this situation.A quick note: “or not” is optional; if you do use it though, it can go right after whether or at the end of the sentence.

like this:
1. Are you at home right now?
as an embedded question: Could you tell me if you are at home right now?
2. Is he the President?
as an embedded question: I don’t know if he is the President.
3. Did they enjoy the party?
as an embedded question: I’m not sure whether or not they enjoyed the party.
4. Has she been to Canada?
as an embedded question: Do you know whether she’s been to Canada?
5. Should we get food and water for the trip?
as an embedded question: I’m not sure if we should get food and water for the trip.

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