In English (as in most languages), we can ask either open-ended questions or closed questions.
Closed questions are questions which generally only require a yes/no answer. When you are asked a closed question, try to add some extra information to your answer; otherwise, conversations can quickly come to an end:
Did you enjoy your last trip to China? Would you like a glass of water? Are you going to see the band at the Peace Hotel tonight? Are you staying at the Hilton? |
Open questions are questions, often using a WH- word, in which the speaker is asking for MORE information than just yes or no. Open questions are very useful in helping to develop a conversation. In a way, you are forcing the person you are speaking with to provide you with longer answers:
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What did you enjoy most about your meal last night? Where would you like to go while you're here? Why are you only staying three days in Shanghai this time? |
When welcoming visitors it's best to use a combination of open and closed questions. Perhaps start off by asking a few closed questions about your visitor's flight, hotel, etc. Then ask a few open questions to get your visitor to open up and speak more expansively about things.