JOURNAL OF NEW CENTURY INNOVATIONS
Volume–78_Issue-1_June-2025
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THE USE OF INTERROGATIVE PRONOUNS IN ENGLISH
Asatullayeva Mohinur -
is an English teacher
at the Academic Lyceum of the
Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) in Kashkadarya.
ladymagnolia1991@gmail.com
Annotation:
This article explores the use of interrogative pronouns in the English
language. It examines their forms, functions, and syntactical positions in interrogative
sentences. The study highlights common errors learners make and provides examples
of correct usage. The research aims to contribute to a better understanding of English
question formation and enhance language teaching methodologies.
Keywords:
Interrogative pronouns, English grammar, question formation, syntax,
language learning, wh-questions
Introduction
Interrogative pronouns are essential elements in English grammar, used to ask
questions and obtain information. They include words such as who, whom, whose,
what, and which. Understanding their correct usage is crucial for effective
communication, especially for learners of English as a second language. This article
aims to analyze the forms and functions of interrogative pronouns and their role in
constructing different types of questions.
Definition and Classification of Interrogative Pronouns
Interrogative pronouns are words that introduce direct or indirect questions.
Unlike other pronouns, they specifically inquire about people, things, possession, or
choice. The main interrogative pronouns in English are:
- Who — refers to people (subject)
- Whom — refers to people (object)
- Whose — indicates possession
- What — refers to things or information
- Which — indicates choice among options
Forms and Functions
Each interrogative pronoun serves different grammatical functions:
- Subject function: Who often acts as the subject of the question.
- Example: Who is coming to the party?
- Object function: Whom is used as an object, though in modern English who
often replaces it in spoken language.
- Example: Whom did you invite?
- Possessive function: Whose shows ownership.
JOURNAL OF NEW CENTURY INNOVATIONS
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- Example: Whose book is this?
- Choice and specification: Which asks about a choice within a known set.
- Example: Which color do you prefer?
- General inquiry: What asks for information about things or concepts.
- Example: What is your name?
Interrogative Pronouns in Question Formation
Interrogative pronouns are typically placed at the beginning of a question. Their
placement and the auxiliary verbs used depend on the type of question:
- Yes/No questions do not use interrogative pronouns.
- Wh-questions begin with an interrogative pronoun followed by auxiliary verbs
and the subject.
- Example: What are you doing?
Common Errors and Challenges
Learners often confuse who and whom, misuse which and what, or omit auxiliary
verbs in wh-questions. For example, Whom is coming? is incorrect since whom cannot
be the subject. The article discusses these common pitfalls and suggests pedagogical
strategies.
The Role of Intonation and Context
In spoken English, intonation can affect the interpretation of questions with
interrogative pronouns. Rising intonation typically signals a question, and context
helps clarify ambiguity.
Indirect Questions with Interrogative Pronouns
Interrogative pronouns are also used in indirect questions embedded within
statements or other questions.
- Example: I wonder who is at the door.
Conclusion
Interrogative pronouns play a vital role in English question formation, facilitating
the acquisition of information. Mastery of their forms and functions significantly
improves learners' communicative competence. Future researchcould explore their
usage in different dialects and registers.
References
1. Azar, B. S. (2002). Understanding and Using English Grammar. Pearson Education.
2. Huddleston, R., & Pullum, G. K. (2002). The Cambridge Grammar of the English
Language. Cambridge University Press.
3. Swan, M. (2005). Practical English Usage. Oxford University Press.
4. Yule, G. (2010). The Study of Language. Cambridge University Press.
5. Quirk, R., Greenbaum, S., Leech, G., & Svartvik, J. (1985). A Comprehensive
Grammar of the English Language. Longman.
