What does "interrogative" mean?
A word (pronoun, pronominal adjective, or adverb) implying interrogation, or used for asking a question: why, who, when, etc.
Interrogative
/ˌɪn.təˈɹɒɡ.ə.tɪv/ adj, noun
adj, noun ·Moderate ·College level
Meaning at a glance
- Primary sense: A word (pronoun, pronominal adjective, or adverb) implying interrogation, or used for asking a question: why, who, when, etc.
- Grammar: interrogative is listed as adj, noun.
- Nearest alternatives: question, bone of contention, catechism, conversational.
- Useful contrasts: assertional content, assertive, declarative.
- Usage evidence: Use interrogative pronouns to rewrite the sentences below; if you need to, you can add or remove a few words.
How to use "interrogative"
- Start with the primary definition, then check the part of speech before placing the word in a sentence.
- Compare nearby synonyms to make sure "interrogative" carries the exact meaning, tone, and strength you need.
- Use the example sentence as a context check. If your sentence uses the word differently, confirm that the grammar still fits.
Meaning check
- Does the word fit the sentence's grammar?
- Does it match the intended tone rather than only the dictionary definition?
- Would a simpler synonym be clearer for the reader?
- Is there enough surrounding context to prevent ambiguity?
Source and review context
This entry combines structured lexical data with WordToolSet review checks. Definitions, examples, synonyms, and usage notes may come from different source tables, so the page is designed to show evidence from more than one angle before you rely on "interrogative" in a final draft.
If a word has several senses, prefer the sense that matches your sentence's grammar and surrounding context. A correct definition can still be the wrong choice when the sentence needs a different register, emphasis, or level of specificity.
Before you rely on this definition
Read the first definition as a starting point, then check the example, synonyms, and part of speech before treating "interrogative" as the right word for your sentence.
If your draft is formal, technical, persuasive, or sensitive, compare "interrogative" with a nearby alternative so the final choice matches both meaning and reader expectation.
Compare nearby meanings
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- Use antonyms to check the boundary of the meaning and avoid accidental contrast.
- Use the example sentence to confirm the word behaves naturally in context.
- Keep the original wording when a replacement adds complexity without improving precision.
Definition decision workflow
1. Identify the role
Check whether "interrogative" is acting as adj, noun in your sentence. A definition is only useful when the grammar matches the way the word is being used.
2. Test the nearest option
Compare it with "question" and other nearby choices to see whether the sentence needs a softer, stronger, or more familiar word.
3. Confirm with context
Use the example sentence below as an evidence check, then read your own sentence out loud to catch tone or rhythm problems.
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Final meaning check
Before publishing a sentence with "interrogative", ask whether the word helps the reader understand the idea faster. A precise word should reduce confusion, not simply make the sentence look more polished.
When the definition, synonym evidence, and example context point in the same direction, the word is usually a safer choice. When they conflict, revise the sentence or choose a clearer alternative.
Definitions
Noun
- 1 A word (pronoun, pronominal adjective, or adverb) implying interrogation, or used for asking a question: why, who, when, etc.
"When question words are used, it is not necessary to add the ke particle, as it is already embedded in the interrogative"
- 2 a sentence of inquiry that asks for a reply wordnet
- 3 Synonym of question mark ⟨?⟩. archaic
"There be five manner of points and divisions most used among cunning men; the which if they be well used, make the sentence very light and easy to be understood, both to the reader and hearer: and they be these, virgil,—come,—parenthesis,—plain point,—interrogative."
- 4 some linguists consider interrogative sentences to constitute a mood wordnet
- 5 A question; an interrogation. rare
""Who are you, sir, and what is your business?" demanded the Marquis... "That is a fair interrogative, my lord," answered Dalgetty."
Adjective
- 1 Asking or denoting a question.
"an interrogative phrase"
- 2 Pertaining to inquiry; questioning
"He took on an interrogative tone of voice."
Adjective
- 1 relating to the use of or having the nature of an interrogation wordnet
- 2 relating to verbs in the so-called interrogative mood wordnet
Synonyms
All synonymsAntonyms
Example
"Use interrogative pronouns to rewrite the sentences below; if you need to, you can add or remove a few words."
Common questions
What is a synonym for "interrogative"?
Common synonyms include: question, bone of contention, catechism, conversational, cross question, cross-interrogatory.
How do you use "interrogative" in a sentence?
Use interrogative pronouns to rewrite the sentences below; if you need to, you can add or remove a few words.
How do you pronounce "interrogative"?
Pronounced /ˌɪn.təˈɹɒɡ.ə.tɪv/.
Etymology
From Late Latin interrogātīvus, equivalent to interrogate + -ive.