Rhetorical Questions

Concept sheet | English Language Arts
Table of contents
Definition

Rhetorical questions are questions not looking for answers. They are used for effect to emphasise something, make a point, open a conversation, get a reaction, etc.

Rhetorical questions follow the same rules and forms as regular questions.

Examples

Common rhetorical questions

Meaning

Who knows?

The speaker doesn’t know and is implying no one else does.

Who knew?

The speaker didn’t know and is implying no one else knew at the time.

Am I right?

Emphasises what was done or said was correct or right.

Are you kidding?

Expresses surprise or disbelief.

Who’s to say?

No one knows or on whose authority.

Can you blame me?

Justifies a choice or action the speaker did.

Who cares?

Expresses it is not important.

Why not?

Expresses agreement.

Why don’t you?

Suggests or commands.

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