The "rule" that you cannot end a sentence with a preposition is one of the most famous grammar myths in English. The truth depends on formality and context.
The Origin of the Rule
The rule was based on Latin grammar, where prepositions cannot end sentences. However, English is not Latin. In English, ending a sentence with a preposition is often natural and sometimes unavoidable.
When It Is Natural (Informal)
In everyday speech and informal writing, ending with a preposition is perfectly natural.
- What are you talking about?
- Who did you go with?
- This is the movie I told you about.
- She has nothing to worry about.
- That is the house I grew up in.
When to Avoid It (Formal)
In formal writing (academic papers, business reports), restructure to avoid ending with a preposition.
| Informal | Formal | | ----------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | | Who are you talking to? | To whom are you speaking? | | This is the topic I am interested in. | This is the topic in which I am interested. | | That is the company I work for. | That is the company for which I work. | | What is this tool used for? | For what is this tool used? |
The Churchill Anecdote
When criticized for ending a sentence with a preposition, Winston Churchill reportedly replied:
"This is the sort of English up with which I will not put."
The overly formal version is absurd, proving that sometimes ending with a preposition is the better choice.
When It Is Required
With phrasal verbs, the preposition is part of the verb and often cannot be moved.
- She needs someone to look after.
- He is difficult to put up with.
- This is a problem we need to deal with.
The Real Rule
The real rule is: Do not end a sentence with a preposition when the preposition is unnecessary or when the result sounds awkward.
| Unnecessary | Better | | -------------------------- | ------------------- | | Where is he at? | Where is he? | | When will it start at? | When will it start? |
If removing the preposition changes the meaning, keep it. If it is redundant, remove it.