What does interrogative mean?
The adjective interrogative describes anything connected with asking a question or expressing one. It can characterize a grammatical form, such as an interrogative sentence, a mood, an expression, or a tone of voice. As a noun, an interrogative is a word or form that asks for information, especially a question word or pronoun such as who, what, which, when, where, why, or how. The term is most useful in grammar and linguistics, where it distinguishes forms that request information from those that make assertions or give commands. In conversation, describing someone's tone as interrogative often implies that the questions are challenging or suspicious rather than merely curious. Although “question word” is more familiar outside technical contexts, “interrogative” offers a precise way to discuss the structure and function of questions.
Relating to, expressing, or forming a question.
"She replied in an interrogative tone that made the conversation feel increasingly tense."
In grammar, it may refer specifically to sentence mood or to a word that asks for information.
A word or grammatical form used to ask a question, especially a question word or pronoun.
"The interrogative “which” signals that the speaker expects the listener to choose from several options."
The noun is standard in linguistic and grammatical discussion but is less common in general speech than “question word.”
Used when referring to individual question words, pronouns, or other question-forming forms.
"The interrogatives “who” and “what” serve different grammatical functions."
Interrogatives are grammar's question marks: a small set of forms that turns a statement into a request for information.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does interrogative come from?
English borrowed the adjective through French interrogatif, from Latin interrogativus, meaning “of interrogation” or “interrogative.” The Latin word derives from interrogare, meaning “to question” or “interrogate.” Related English forms include interrogate, interrogation, interrogatory, and interrogator, all developed from the same Latin root.
Related word forms
How interrogative is actually used
As a noun, “interrogative” is grammatically precise but less common in everyday speech than “question word.” As an adjective describing a tone, manner, or sentence, it can sound formal and may suggest suspicion or a demand for an answer.
Easily confused with interrogative
Interrogative is primarily a grammatical term for a question or question-forming word, whereas interrogatory more often means investigative or used for questioning.
Interrogation is the act of questioning someone, while an interrogative is a grammatical form or expression that asks a question.