An interrogative sentence necessarily ends with a question mark.
According to the information provided, the correct answer is 'a question mark'. This is because an interrogative sentence is specifically designed to ask a question, and question marks serve as the standard punctuation to indicate this function in writing. Interrogative sentences are punctuated with question marks.
Understanding Interrogative Sentences
An interrogative sentence is a sentence type that poses a question. Its primary purpose is to seek information. Unlike declarative sentences (which make statements), imperative sentences (which give commands), or exclamatory sentences (which express strong emotion), the hallmark of an interrogative sentence is the inquiry it makes.
Key Characteristics:
- Function: Asks a question.
- Structure: Often begins with an interrogative word (like who, what, where, when, why, how) or a form of a verb (like is, are, did, do, can, will).
- Ending Punctuation: Must end with a question mark (?).
Examples of Interrogative Sentences
Here are a few examples demonstrating how interrogative sentences conclude:
- What time is the meeting?
- Have you finished your homework?
- Is it raining outside?
- Where did you leave the keys?
- Can we go to the park tomorrow?
In every instance, the sentence ends distinctly with a question mark, fulfilling its role as an inquiry.
Why the Question Mark is Essential
The question mark serves a crucial role in written communication. It immediately signals to the reader that the sentence is an interrogative one and requires a response or indicates that a question is being posed. Without the question mark, an interrogative sentence could be misread as a statement or command, leading to confusion.
Think of it this way:
| Sentence Type | Purpose | Ending Punctuation | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Interrogative | Ask a question | ? | Are you ready? |
| Declarative | Make a statement | . | I am ready. |
| Imperative | Give a command | . or ! | Be ready. or Be ready! |
| Exclamatory | Express strong emotion | ! | Wow, that was quick! |
As the table illustrates, the question mark is uniquely tied to the interrogative function.
Practical Application
Correctly punctuating interrogative sentences is fundamental for clear and effective writing. Whether you are writing an email, a report, a story, or asking a direct question in a text message, using the question mark ensures your reader understands your intent is to ask something.
- Correct: How can I help?
- Incorrect: How can I help.
- Incorrect: How can I help!
The only correct and necessary punctuation mark to end an interrogative sentence is the question mark.
