NEGATIVES QUESTIONS

We use negative questions to show surprise, in exclamations and when we expect the listener to agree with us.

1. TO SHOW SURPRISE

Didn't you hear the bell? I rang it four times.

2. IN EXCLAMATIONS

Doesn't that house look beautiful! (= that house looks really beautiful)

3. WHEN WE EXPECT THE LISTENER TO AGREE WITH US

"Haven't we met somewhere before?" "Yes, I think we have."

NOTICE THE MEANING OF YES AND NO IN ANSWERS TO NEGATIVE QUESTIONS:

Didn't Roberto pass his exams? Yes. (= Yes, he passed them.) No. (= No, he didn't pass them.)

NOTICE THE WORD ORDER IN NEGATIVE QUESTIONS WITH WHY...?:

Why didn't you lock the door? (not why you didn't lock) Why don't we go out to Harley's restaurant? (not why we don't go) Why can't you help me? (not why you can't help me) Why wasn't Claudia invited to the party? (not why Claudia wasn't)