Question Tags
A question tag is a short question added at the end of a statement to ask for information, confirmation, or for approval. Question tags are often used in daily conversations.
Example of a question tag using the verb “be” (is/am/are/was/were):
- Reni: Mrs. Carmen is a tennis player, isn’t she? (asking for approval)
- Harry: Yes, she is. (giving approval)
Examples of a question tag using a verb:
- Silo: Everybody looks happy at the end of the game, don’t they? (asking approval)
- Tinton: Certainly, they do. Look at those smiles. (giving confirmation)
Note: Everybody, although usually singular, is plural in question tags. - Hera: You bought a new tennis racket, didn’t you? (asking for confirmation)
- Chamid: No, I didn’t. (giving denial)
- Zeta: That’s LeBron James. You do remember him, don’t you? (asking for confirmation)
- Vera: Of course, I do. (giving approval)
Example of an Invitation Statement
- Let’s watch a soccer game tonight, shall we?
Examples of Command and Prohibition
- Tiara: Finish this report by tomorrow, will you? (commanding politely)
Dedi: Of course, I will finish it soon. (acknowledges command) - Teacher: Don’t make too much noise, will you? (prohibiting firmly)
Student: Sure, we will be quiet, ma’am. (acknowledges prohibition)
