Expecting Questions|Question Tag|Sem 2|LANGUAGE IN USE GRAMMAR FOR UNDERGRADUATES|English Grammar

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide to understanding question tags in English grammar, focusing on their usage and formation. Question tags are essential for creating conversational English and are especially relevant for undergraduates studying English grammar. This guide will help you grasp the concept, apply it correctly, and prepare for potential examination questions.

Step 1: Understand the Concept of Question Tags

Question tags are short phrases added to the end of declarative sentences to turn them into questions. They seek confirmation or clarification.

Key Points

• A question tag typically mirrors the auxiliary verb in the main sentence.
• If the main sentence is positive, the question tag is usually negative, and vice versa.

Examples

• You're coming to the party, aren't you? (Positive statement + Negative tag)
• She isn’t feeling well, is she? (Negative statement + Positive tag)

Step 2: Learn the Structure of Question Tags

The structure of a question tag depends on the tense and the subject of the main sentence.

Steps to Formulate Question Tags

1. Identify the auxiliary verb in the main sentence.
2. Determine the subject of the main sentence.
3. Formulate the question tag using the auxiliary verb in the opposite form.

Practical Advice

• If there is no auxiliary verb, use the verb "do" in the appropriate tense.
• Example:
  • He plays guitar, doesn’t he?
  • She likes ice cream, doesn’t she?

Step 3: Practice with Various Tenses

Question tags can be applied to different tenses, each having its own rules.

Tense Breakdown

• Present Simple:
  • She works hard, doesn’t she?
• Past Simple:
  • They went to the concert, didn’t they?
• Present Continuous:
  • You are studying, aren’t you?
• Future Simple:
  • He will arrive soon, won’t he?

Common Pitfalls

• Forgetting to match the subject and auxiliary verb.
• Using the wrong form of the verb (positive vs. negative).

Step 4: Explore Special Cases

Some sentences may not follow the standard rules for question tags.

Special Cases

• Imperative sentences:
  • Close the door, won’t you?
• Expressions of certainty:
  • It’s a beautiful day, isn’t it?

Tips

• In informal contexts, you can use tags that sound more natural to the speaker.
• Always consider the tone and politeness of the conversation.

Conclusion

Understanding question tags is crucial for effective communication in English. By following the steps outlined in this tutorial, you can confidently form and use question tags in various contexts. Practice with different sentences to solidify your grasp of the concept. For further learning, explore the linked video for examples and deeper explanations.