Position of verb for object clause?

Question

Is the general word order of this sentence correct? > We investigate how strong the effect of X on Y is. Or, as an alternative, > We investigate how strong the effect of X is on Y. In a preprint for a scientific publication I came across the formulation: > We investigate how strong is the effect of XZY. and now I'm all confused.

Answer 1

Hi,

The grammatically correct version is the sentence that doesn't end in a verb. "We investigate how strong the effect of X is on Y" is the best version. The formulation "We investigate how strong is the effect of XZY." is also grammatically correct because it doesn't end in a verb, preposition, etc. I would be more than happy to review your scientific paper. I have experience in editing proposals, grant requests, and lab assignments.

If you seek lessons, please feel free to message me.

Sincerely,

Starlyte

Answer 2

Hi,

"We investigate how strong the effect of X is on Y" is correct because otherwise you're ending the sentence with a 'dangling' verb, 'is'.

I hope that helps you.

Laurie G.