English for Today by Ganiu Abisoye Bamgbose (Dr GAB)

Did you know or Do you know?

~Do you know~ I was in Ibadan sometime last week (nonstandard)?
*Did you know* I was in Ibadan sometime last week (standard)?
“Did you know” is used to talk about what you know but that you wish to confirm if the other person knows too.

~Did you know~ the way to the stadium? I need to get there. (nonstandard).
*Do you know* the way to the stadium (standard). I need to get there. (standard).
The phrase “do you know” is usually used when you are trying to find out information that you do not know.
GAB

No comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *