A Trinity College London Registered Examination Centre
Sometimes, things happen that we would like explained and we must demand explanations. For example, if you have just bought a new computer and there is a problem, but the shop assistant says that the guaranty does not cover the problem. There are a number of formulas used when demanding explanations in English. Here are some of the most common:
- Can you tell me why…
- I don’t understand why…
- Can you explain why..
- Why is it that…
- How come…
- Does this mean…
- Do you really expect me to believe…
Construction
| Formula | + Verb Form |
| Can you tell me why it has taken you so long to respond? | Use 'Can you tell me why' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |
| I don't understand why it has taken you so long to respond. | Use 'I don't understand why' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is a statement and does NOT require a question mark (?) |
| Can you explain why it has taken you so long to respond? | Use 'Can you explain why' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |
| Why is it that it has taken you so long to respond? | Use 'Why is it that' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |
| How come it has taken you so long to respond? | Use 'How come' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |
| Does this mean (that) it has taken you so long to respond? | Use 'Does this mean (that)' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |
| Do you (really) expect me to belive (that) you weren't able to finish on time? | Use 'Do you (really) expect me to belive (that)' + a full clause in the positive statement form (S + V + O). Notice that this is an indirect question and requires a question mark (?). |