QUESTION TAGS

 

Question tags are short phrases that are added to the end of a sentence to transform a statement into a question or to seek confirmation or agreement from the listener. They are used to verify information, express doubt, or elicit a response. Question tags are commonly used in spoken English.

The structure of a question tag typically consists of an auxiliary verb or a modal verb followed by a pronoun that matches the subject of the sentence. The question tag mirrors the verb form used in the main clause, so if the main clause is in the positive form, the question tag is usually negative, and vice versa.

Here are a few examples to illustrate the usage of question tags:

1. He is a doctor, isn't he? (positive statement, negative question tag)
2. You don't like coffee, do you? (negative statement, positive question tag)
3. They have finished their work, haven't they? (positive statement, negative question tag)
4. She can swim well, can't she? (positive statement, negative question tag)
5. It's raining outside, isn't it? (positive statement, negative question tag)

Question tags also reflect the tense and subject of the main clause, and they help to engage the listener in the conversation by inviting a response or confirmation. They are often used to check information, seek agreement, or express surprise. It's important to note that the intonation used when saying the question tag can affect the meaning and intention behind it.

Question tags are a useful tool in conversation to encourage interaction and clarify information.