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Anonymous Posted 12 years ago
Grammar

Grammar

a. John wonders why Mary kicked him.
b. (X) John wonders why did Mary kick him.

Why is (a) OK, but (b) not?
  

Top answer

) is wrong. John is only wondering why Mary kicked him. CB

  • ) is wrong.
  • John is only wondering why Mary kicked him.
  • CB
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5 Answers
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John is not asking anything and that's why the question structure (why did Many kick?) is wrong. John is only wondering why Mary kicked him.

CB
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Cool Breeze, mind if I ask you another question here? Why would you use present continuous "John is not asking anything " when replying to the above queston? Could it be replaced by does, say, John does not ask anything. This question might strike you as little bit daft, but I really fancy finding it out. Thanks again.

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John doesn't ask would be fine with me. I just think that the continuous form is more often used in this context.

CB
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Oh, I see. Could you dwell on why people use continuous form in this context? I want to learn more from you in this regard.
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john kenterCould you dwell on why people use continuous form in this context?
I never gave it much thought.

CB

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