Question words in English

Curious about how to ask the right questions in English? Asking questions is a fundamental skill in English that opens doors to understanding and connection. This page is all about unraveling the power of question words—those essential tools like “who,” “what,” “where,” “when,” “why,” and “how” that unlock information and spark conversation. Whether you’re a beginner looking to build your skills or an advanced learner aiming to polish your fluency, we’ve got you covered with clear explanations, real-life examples, and easy-to-follow tips. Get ready to master the art of questioning and take your English to the next level—let’s get started!

We use many words to ask questions in English. So, what is the who, what, when, where, why, and how? Here are the primary question words (also known as interrogative words) in English:

• Who – Used for asking about a person or people.

Examples: Who is at the door? / Who made this mess on the floor?

• What – Used to inquire about things or actions.

Examples: What are you doing? / What is that on your shirt? / What in the world is happening to your car?

• When – Relates to time; used to ask about the timing of events.

Examples: When is the race? / When are you leaving for London?

• Where – Refers to place or location.

Examples: Where are you going? / Where is my phone? / Where in the world are my keys?

• Why – Seeks reasons or explanations.

Examples: Why do you talk so loudly? / Why is the grass dying?

• How – Used to find out the manner, condition, or means by which something is done.

Examples: How are you doing? / How will we get to the store? / How can you say that?

• Which – Used when choosing between a specific set of options.

Examples: Which of these do you want? / Which channel is the game on?

• Whose – Inquires about ownership or possession.

Examples: Whose glass is this? / Whose dog is running loose in the neighborhood?

These words form the basis for constructing questions in English. Remember, “how” can also combine with other words to form additional questions like:

• How much – For quantities that are not countable.

Examples: How much does it cost? / How much sleep did you get?

• How many – For countable quantities.

Examples: How many stars are in the sky? / How many pairs of shoes do you have?

• How often – For frequency.

Examples: How often do you come here? / How often does it rain?

• How long – For duration.

Examples: How long are you in town for? / How long have you been teaching?

• How far – For distance.

Examples: How far is the store? / How far have you come along with your homework?

Each of these can be pivotal in forming detailed and specific questions.

In summary

This article explores the essential English question words and their roles in gathering information and driving conversation. “Who” identifies people (e.g., “Who is at the door?”), “what” targets things or actions (e.g., “What are you doing?”), “when” addresses timing (e.g., “When is the race?”), “where” pinpoints locations (e.g., “Where are my keys?”), “why” seeks reasons (e.g., “Why is the grass dying?”), and “how” examines manner or means (e.g., “How are you doing?”). Additional words include “which” for choices (e.g., “Which do you want?”) and “whose” for possession (e.g., “Whose glass is this?”). The text also highlights “how” variations like “how much” (uncountable quantities), “how many” (countable items), “how often” (frequency), “how long” (duration), and “how far” (distance), each illustrated with examples such as “How much does it cost?” or “How far is the store?” These question words are key to forming specific, effective inquiries, making them vital for English learners at any level.