If you really are an ambitious English learner, you should be well aware about every aspect of the English language. From grammar to its usage in spoken English. Even though spoken English is easier to pick up, grammar, however, tends to take a little more learning, understanding and practice. Hence, here is an article that will teach you all about question tags and their usage in English grammar.

What is a question tag?

Question tags are the short questions we usually put at the end of sentences. These are usually used while conversing or speaking. Nonetheless, there are many types of question tags.

What are the different types of question tags?

1. Positive question tag- Usually, when the sentence is negative, then the question tag is positive.
2. Negative question tag- If the sentence is positive, then the question tag is negative.

A few examples to explain the concept of Question Tags

1. Jacob is at work, isn't he? – Positive sentence + Negative question tag
2. Sheetal didn't go, did she? – Negative sentence + Positive question tag
3. You're a manager, aren't you? – Positive sentence + Negative question tag
4. Ria isn't a liar, is she? – Negative sentence + Positive question tag

Three facts about question tags:

1. A question tag is used when a statement is made, but the speaker is expecting a response.
2. You need to be well versed with affirmative (positive) and negative sentences.
3. Be sure to use the right question tag for the right sentence.

Tip-

Positive sentence + Negative question tag; Negative sentence + Positive question tag

Let's take a look at an exercise for you to do:

1. Hey Richard! I could hardly recognize you. You've changed your look, __________?

a) have you
b) haven't you

2. Rachel knows about the surprise party, _________?

a) doesn't she
b) does she

3. I heard she isn't married, ________?

a) is she
b) isn't she

4. You have come home before, ________?

a) haven't you
b) have you

5. We shouldn't be expecting so much from him, ­­­­_________?

a) should we
b) shouldn't we

6. The climate is very cold today, _________?

a) is it
b) isn't it

7. I don't have any chocolates for you, _________?

a) don't you
b) do you

8. We won't move soon, ________?

a) won't we
b) will we

9. I'm the first to arrive, ________?

a) have I
b) aren't I

10. They aren't landing today, _______?

a) are they
b) should they

English is a language that needs you to be focused and alert when learning. You should have the will power to say that you will improve your English communication skills and work towards achieving your set goal. You could also take an alternative and sign up for an English-speaking course online to help you better not only your spoken English skills but also your understanding of English grammar.

Finally, as Orison Swett Marden said, "The golden opportunity you are seeking is in yourself. It is not in your environment; it is not in luck or chance, or the help of others; it is in yourself alone."

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- By Shailja Varma

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