interrogative

Part of Speech

Adjective, Noun

Pronunciation

/ɪnˈtɛrəɡətɪv/

Definitions

1. Adjective: Relating to or expressing a question.
2. Adjective: Used in or forming a question.
3. Noun: A word or phrase used to ask a question.

Usage Examples

• She raised an interrogative eyebrow as she questioned his story.
• The teacher used an interrogative sentence to prompt discussion in the classroom.
• The interrogative "Who is responsible for this task?" was asked in the meeting.

Etymology

From Latin "interrogativus," meaning "asking, questioning," from "interrogare" (to ask or question), combined with the suffix "-ive," meaning relating to or having the quality of. The term dates back to the 14th century.

Synonyms

• Questioning
• Probing
• Inquisitive
• Curious

Antonyms

• Declarative
• Assertive
• Statement

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• US: /ɪnˈtɛrəɡətɪv/
• UK: /ɪnˈtɛrəɡətɪv/

Historical Usage

The word "interrogative" has been used since the 14th century, originating from the Latin "interrogativus," meaning "questioning." Historically, interrogative forms have been a central part of the development of grammar, especially in languages that emphasize the distinction between statement, command, and question. Interrogative words or structures are fundamental in human communication and have evolved in different cultures with distinct forms and functions.

Cultural Nuances

In many cultures, interrogative sentences or questions are viewed as a way to encourage dialogue, curiosity, and the exchange of information. The way questions are asked, whether direct or indirect, varies widely across cultures. For instance, in some cultures, being too direct with an interrogative sentence can be perceived as rude or intrusive, while in others, direct questioning is seen as a sign of respect for clarity. The cultural context and tone of the interrogative word are often more important than the structure itself.

More Information

The word "interrogative" is crucial in both grammar and daily communication, signifying any word or form used to ask questions. It can refer to specific words such as "who," "what," "where," and "why," or to sentence structures that are designed to solicit answers. The study of interrogative forms has been key in the development of syntactic theory, and they continue to be a topic of interest in both linguistic and philosophical discussions about language and meaning.