question word

[ˈkwɛs.tʃən wɜːrd]
nounpl: question words
palavra interrogativa
1. A word used to ask a question, typically beginning an interrogative sentence. Common question words include who, what, where, when, why, and how.
The question word 'where' is used to ask about location.
A palavra interrogativa 'onde' é usada para perguntar sobre localização.
2. In grammar, an interrogative pronoun, adverb, or determiner that initiates or forms part of a question.
Students learned to identify question words in the English lesson.
Os alunos aprenderam a identificar palavras interrogativas na aula de inglês.
Question words are fundamental to English language instruction in both the United States and Brazil. In Brazilian schools, teaching 'palavras interrogativas' is a core component of English grammar curriculum. The concept is used similarly across both cultures for language learning and communication skills development.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
interrogative wordinterrogative pronounwh-wordinterrogative adverb
Antonyms / Antônimos
statement worddeclarative word

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
palavra interrogativa
Standard term used in grammar education and linguistic contexts
Rio de Janeiro
palavra interrogativa
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese; no regional variation
São Paulo
palavra interrogativa
Same as general Brazilian Portuguese; no regional variation
Portugal
palavra interrogativa
Identical to Brazilian Portuguese; European Portuguese uses the same term

Related Words

interrogative sentencequestion markinterrogative clausequeryinquiry

Related Idioms & Phrases

ask a question
pop the question
the million-dollar question
beg the question
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