Question Tags Added to Interrogative Clauses
While question tags are typically added to declarative clauses, they can also be appended to interrogative clauses. This usage is less common but adds emphasis or seeks confirmation in conversational contexts.
Understanding the Structure
When question tags are added to interrogative clauses, they often serve to reinforce the question or express surprise, curiosity, or skepticism. The structure remains the same: the question tag mirrors the auxiliary verb and subject of the main clause.
✧ Do you want this, do you, anywhere?
Here, the question tag "do you" is added to the interrogative clause "Do you want this?" to seek confirmation or emphasize the question.
✧ A: Oh, that Earnest film’s on tonight.
B: Oh, is it tonight, is it?
A: Yeah.
In this example, Speaker B uses the question tag "is it" to express surprise or seek confirmation about the film's timing.
Key Points to Remember
- Question tags can be added to both declarative and interrogative clauses.
- When used with interrogative clauses, question tags often emphasize the question or seek confirmation.
- The structure of the question tag remains consistent, mirroring the auxiliary verb and subject of the main clause.
Why Use Question Tags with Interrogative Clauses?
Adding question tags to interrogative clauses can make conversations more dynamic and engaging. They help speakers express emotions like surprise, doubt, or curiosity while seeking validation from the listener.
✧ Are you coming with us, are you?
This example shows how a question tag can be used to emphasise the question and seek a clear response.
Practical Usage in Conversations
In everyday conversations, this structure is often used to:
- Clarify information: "Did she say that, did she?"
- Express surprise: "Is this really happening, is it?"
- Seek agreement: "Can we start now, can we?"
