There are a number of formulas used when asking for information in English. Here are some of the most common:
- Could you tell me...?
- Do you know...?
- Do you happen to know...?
- I'd like to know...
- Could you find out...?
- I'm interested in...
- I'm looking for..
These two forms are used for asking for information on the telephone:
- I'm calling to find out...
- I'm calling about...
After you study these constructions, take the asking for information quiz to check your understanding.
More English Functions
Disagreeing
Contrasting Ideas
Making Complaints
Asking for Information
Giving Advice
Guessing
Being Imprecise or Vague
Saying 'No' Nicely
Showing Preferences
Making Suggestions
Offering Help
Giving Warning
Demanding Explanations
Construction
| Formula | Question Word | Example Finish |
| Could you tell me | when | the next train leaves? |
| Do you know | how much | that vase costs? |
| Do you happen to know | where | Tom lives? |
| I'd like to know | what | you think about the new project. |
| Could you tell me | when | the next train leaves? |
| Could you find out | when | she is going to arrive? |
| Formula | Gerund (-ing) | Example Finish |
| I'm interested in | buying | a boat |
| Formula | Noun | Example Finish |
| I'm looking for | information on | holidays in Spain. |
| Formula used only on the telphone | Question Word | Example Finish |
| I'm calling to find out... | if | flight AZ098 will leave on time today. |
| Formula used only on the telphone | Noun | Example Finish |
| I'm calling about... | the offer | published in today's newspaper. |
