Unit 12: TAG QUESTIONS

We can use tag questions in speaking, and sometimes in writing, at the end of a sentence. We use only the first auxiliary verb -- the same as with short answers (Unit 11).

Affirmative sentences

With AFFIRMATIVE SENTENCES (+) use a NEGATIVE TAG (-).

He was at work yesterday, wasn't he?

She has been sick lately, hasn't she?

We should meet later, shouldn't we?

With one-word verb formations, use the correct form of the verb do (Unit 15):

You like working here, don't you? (NOT liken't you?)

He studies hard, doesn't he?

They went yesterday, didn't they?

Negative sentences

With NEGATIVE SENTENCES (-) use an AFFIRMATIVE TAG (+).

John is not a pharmacist, is he?

You don't like exercising, do you? NOT like you?

She hasn't been taking her medicine, has she?

The students couldn't do the test, could they?

Using tag questions

TO CHECK SOMETHING

You play hockey, don't you?

Mina doesn't like milk, does she?

WHEN YOU WANT SOMEONE TO DO SOMETHING

It's a lovely day, isn't it? (I want you to agree.)

You're a doctor, aren't you? (I want medical advice.)

TO SHOW SURPRISE (WITH NEGATIVE STATEMENTS ONLY)

You don't play hockey, do you? (I have just learnt that you play hockey, but this surprises me).

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Exercise 12.1