question clause

[ˈkwɛʃ.tʃən klɔːz]
nounpl: question clauses
oração interrogativa
1. A subordinate clause that functions as a noun and contains a question or inquiry, often introduced by interrogative words (what, who, where, when, why, how) or whether/if
She asked what time the meeting would start.
Ela perguntou que horas a reunião começaria.
2. In grammar, a dependent clause that expresses a question indirectly within a larger sentence
I wonder whether he will come to the party.
Fico pensando se ele virá à festa.
3. A clause used to pose or embed a question within a statement, commonly used in reported speech
The teacher asked how many students understood the lesson.
O professor perguntou quantos alunos entenderam a lição.
Question clauses are fundamental concepts in English and Portuguese grammar instruction. Both Brazil and Portugal emphasize this structure in formal education, particularly in secondary school grammar courses and linguistic studies. The term is used consistently in academic and educational contexts in both countries.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
interrogative clauseembedded questionindirect question clausenoun clause with interrogative function
Antonyms / Antônimos
declarative clauseimperative clauseexclamatory clause

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
oração interrogativa
Standard term used in grammar instruction
São Paulo
oração interrogativa
Consistent usage in formal contexts
Portugal
oração interrogativa
Same terminology used in European Portuguese grammar
Rio de Janeiro
oração interrogativa
Standard usage in educational settings

Related Words

subordinate clausenoun clauseinterrogativereported speechindirect speechdependent clause

Related Idioms & Phrases

raise a question clause
embed a question clause
subordinate question clause
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