Asking for Information and Details

Hello everyone, how are you? I hope you are in good health.

  Today I will discuss Asking for Information in English,

  Basically, asking for information is a natural thing that happens around us, such as asking for information about the price of a product to just asking how each other is doing.

 

If you ask a piece of information Informally

 And now if you are asking a friend or family member for information, use a direct question.

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How to Ask Informal Questions in French
Where does she live?
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for the Question Structure is : 5W/1H + Helping Verb + Subject + Verb

for example: How much does the deal cost?

If you ask a piece of information Formally

  Use these forms for simple, everyday questions in stores, with colleagues at work, and in other informal situations.

for the Question Structure: Pardon me / Excuse me + Can / Could you tell me + Wh? + Subject + verb?

for example: Excuse me, Can you tell me when the train arrives?

If you were asked a question to provide information, how would you answer it?

if you are asked informally, you can use one of them: 

• - Sure.
• - No problem.
• - Let me see.

but if you are asked formally, use this: 

• - I'd be happy to answer that.
• - I should be able to answer your question.
• - It'd be a pleasure to help you.
• and many more!

Then what if we refuse to provide any information?

  Saying 'no,' is never fun, but sometimes it's necessary. Instead, it's common to offer a suggestion as to where someone might find the information.

  if informally:

• - Sorry, I can't help you out.
• - Sorry, but I don't know that.
• - That's beyond me, sorry.

  If Formally: 

• - I'm afraid I don't have the answer to that question.
• - I'd like to help you. Unfortunately, I don't have that information / don't know.

So how? do you understand?

Now please find a partner and practice the dialogue below!

Informal casual situation

Brother: When does the movie start?
Sister: I think it's at 8.
Brother: Check, will you?
Sister: You're so lazy. Just a second.
Brother: Thanks, sis.
Sister: Yes, it starts at 8. Get off the couch sometimes!

More Complex or Formal Situation

Man: Excuse me, would you mind answering some questions?
Business Colleague: I'd be happy to help.
Man: I wonder if you could tell me when the project is going to begin.
Business Colleague: I believe we're beginning the project next month.
Man: and who will be responsible for the project.
Business Colleague: I think Bob Smith is in charge of the project.
Man: OK, finally, would you mind telling me how much the estimated cost will be?
Business Colleague: I'm afraid I can't answer that. Perhaps you should speak to my director.
Man: Thank you. I thought you might say that. I'll speak to Mr. Anders.
Business Colleague: Yes, that would be best for that type of information. Man: Thank you for helping out.
Business Colleague: My pleasure.