Phrases, Clauses, and Sentences
Periods, Question Marks, Exclamation Points
Two problem situations involving the use of question marks are the indirect question and the sarcastic, or emphatic question. These are special cases that require you to be clear about your intent.
Indirect questions
When a question is being reported rather than directly asked, it ends with a period rather than a question mark. Compare the following sentences.
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Ethan asked, “What made the sky so brilliant tonight?” (direct question)
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Ethan asked what made the sky so brilliant tonight. (indirect question)
Sarcastic and emphatic question marks
Don't use question marks to indicate sarcasm (as in the first sentence). If you feel an overpowering need to call attention to the use of sarcasm, you can consider using quotation marks (as in the second sentence).
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The actor said his interest in the orphans was purely altruistic (?) and that the presence of the photographers was coincidental. (not advisable)
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The actor said his interest in the orphans was “ purely altruistic” and that the presence of the photographers was coincidental. (better)
The phrase “purely altruistic” is probably a direct quote from the actor anyway. But be careful when using quotation marks to indicate tone.
Never be tempted to use more than one question mark for the sake of emphasis.
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Do you really want to risk your life skydiving?
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not Do you really want to risk your life skydiving??
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The use of really makes the point.
