Embedded Questions

Article excerpt · target grammar marked

"The question is not whether a multipolar world is coming," he said. "The question is whether we can build rules and institutions that make multipolarity manageable.

Grammar Reference · Embedded Questions

Embedded question form

Could you tell me what the minister said? — subject before verb in embedded clause

whether vs if

I wonder whether they will reach a deal. — prefer whether in formal writing

Reporting uncertainty

It is unclear how the policy will affect trade. — hedged, formal register

Common error

I wonder what does he mean. ✗ → I wonder what he means. ✓ — no auxiliary inversion

01Exercise 1 — Form · Write the Correct Form

Embedded Questions

1.The board wanted to know the new markets would be viable.

2.Could you clarify the company adopted a hedging strategy?

3.It is not yet clear the trade agreement will be signed.

4.I wonder strategic autonomy is possible for small firms.

5.Nobody explained the bilateral talks broke down last month.

6.The question remains as to Singapore will maintain this balance.

02Exercise 2 — Find and Correct the Error

find the error · rewrite the sentence

1.Could you tell me what is the company's diplomatic posture?

2.I wonder whether should we adjust the hedging strategy now.

3.It is unclear how does non-alignment benefit smaller firms.

4.She asked why were the bilateral talks postponed.

03Exercise 3 — About You

in your notebook

Personalise: complete five sentences about yourself using the target grammar.

Embedded Questions01EnglishPlans.com