Clause combinations
Combinations of clauses can be used in English to express a polite request. The greater the imposition on the hearer, the longer the combination is likely to be, and it may be preceded by an apology:
I’m terribly sorry to bother you. I wonder if you could possibly write me a testimonial. If it’s not too inconvenient, perhaps you could let me have it by tomorrow.
Clauses without subject or finite verb
How about a swim? Wh-questions as suggestion
Why not start again?
Why all this fuss? verbless Why-questions as inquiry
What to do in case of fire Wh-to-inf. clauses as directive headings
How to boost your self-esteem
Subordinate clauses
To think what we might have missed! to-infinitive clauses as exclamations
Not to worry! or as friendly advice
If only I had taken his advice! if only clauses, indicating regret
What if we all go for a drink? Wh-if-clauses as suggestions
Groups and words with speech act force
Straight ahead!
Down with war!
Careful!
Silence!
Scalpel!
