Interrogative

/ˌɪn.təˈɹɒɡ.ə.tɪv/ · adjective

Meaning

(grammar) Asking or denoting a question..

Definitions by Sense

1. (grammar) Asking or denoting a question.
2. Pertaining to inquiry; questioning
3. (grammar) A word (pronoun, pronominal adjective, or adverb) implying interrogation, or used for asking a question: why, who, when, etc.
4. (typography, archaic) Synonym of question mark ⟨?⟩.
5. (rare) A question; an interrogation.

Example Sentences

an interrogative phrase

an interrogative pronoun

The regular place of the interrogative word, of whatever kind, is at the beginning of the sentence, or as near it as possible.

An interrogative particle ke is placed at the end of a question. […] The interrogative words are placed at the beginning of the sentence

He took on an interrogative tone of voice.

Thus speaking, the good man regarded his lady with an interrogative look. "I do n't know, dear!" she replied kindly, and sighing again.

When question words are used, it is not necessary to add the ke particle, as it is already embedded in the interrogative

There be five manner of points and divisions most used among cunning men; the which if they be well used, make the sentence very light and easy to be understood, both to the reader and hearer: and they be these, virgil,—come,—parenthesis,—plain point,—interrogative.

Synonyms for interrogative

Antonyms for interrogative

Related Words

Word Forms

• more interrogative
• most interrogative
• interrogatives

Usage Notes

Choose a synonym only when it preserves the intended meaning, tone, and grammar of the full sentence.

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