interrogative

UK: ɪnˈtɛrəɡətɪv | US: ɪnˈtɛrəɡətɪv

Definition

  1. adj. having the force of a question

  2. adj. used in questions

  3. n. a word or construction used to ask a question

Structure
inter <between>rog <ask>ative <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "interrogative" traces back to Latin interrogare (to question), combining inter- (between) and rogare (to ask). The root rog- reflects the act of questioning or demanding, while -ative turns it into an adjective. Historically, it evolved from legal and rhetorical contexts where systematic questioning was essential.

Examples

  1. "Is this your book?" is an interrogative sentence.

  2. The word "who" is an interrogative pronoun.

  3. She used an interrogative tone to challenge his statement.

  4. In grammar, interrogative adverbs include "why" and "how."

  5. The detective's interrogative approach revealed new clues.