In Russian, it’s really important to know how to ask direct and indirect questions. Each type of question is used for different reasons, and understanding them can help you communicate better.

Direct Questions

Direct questions are straightforward. They ask for specific information. You can form these questions using special words or by changing how you say them.

Examples:

1. Что ты делаешь? (What are you doing?)
2. Где ты живёшь? (Where do you live?)
3. Ты хочешь чай? (Do you want tea?) - This is a yes or no question.

Indirect Questions

Indirect questions are a little different. They are part of a sentence and don’t need a question mark at the end. These questions often sound more polite or thoughtful.

Examples:

1. Я хочу знать, что ты делаешь. (I want to know what you are doing.)
2. Интересно, где ты живёшь. (I wonder where you live.)
3. Он спросил, хочешь ли ты чай. (He asked if you wanted tea.)

How to Form Questions

• Yes/No Questions: You can make these by changing your tone or using the word "ли" ( ли ).
  • Example: Ты пришёл? (Did you come?)
• Open-ended Questions: Start with question words like что (what), где (where), когда (when), кто (who), and почему (why).
  • Example: Почему ты опоздал? (Why are you late?)

By learning how to use both direct and indirect questions, you can have smoother and smarter conversations in Russian.