Asking Questions in English (Part 1)

A: ... do you live?

B: In a small town near here.

• Where

• Who

• What

Answer explanation

We use "where" to ask about place.

A: ... was at the party?

B: Ali, Kevin, and some other friends.

• What

• Who

• Which

Answer explanation

We use "who" to ask about person.

A: ... did you say to Laura?

B: Nothing.

• How often

• Which

• What

Answer explanation

We use "what" to ask about object, idea, or action.

... box do you prefer, the small one or the big one?

• Which

• How often

• When

Answer explanation

"Which" is similar to what. But we use which when there are a small number of possible answers (the small one or the big one).

A: ... do you go out?

B: Every Saturday.

• Why

• How often

• Which

Answer explanation

We use "how often" to ask about frequency.

A: ... are you going to visit me?

B: Next Sunday.

• When

• Why

• How much

Answer explanation

We use "when" to ask about time.

A: ... didn't you tell me anything?

B: Because I was afraid.

• Why

• How much

• When

Answer explanation

We use "why" to ask about reason.

A: ... sugar do you want in your coffee?

B: Two spoonfuls, please.

• What time

• How much

• How long

Answer explanation

We use "how much" with uncountable nouns (sugar) to ask about quantity.

A: ... shall we meet?

B: At 7?

• What time

• Where

• How long

Answer explanation

We use "what time" to ask about time.

A: ... is she going to stay?

B: Just a couple of days.

• Who

• Where

• How long

Answer explanation

We use "how long" to ask about duration or length.