Why is it less formal?
* Traditional rules: English grammar has historically discouraged starting sentences with prepositions. This rule stems from Latin grammar, where prepositions couldn't start a sentence.
* Flow and emphasis: Starting with a preposition can sometimes make the sentence sound choppy or place the emphasis on the wrong word.
When is it okay?
* Informal writing: It's more common in casual writing, like emails, social media posts, or conversational speech.
* Emphasis: If you want to emphasize a specific element, starting with a preposition can be effective.
* Clarity: Sometimes, starting with a preposition can make the sentence clearer or more concise.
Examples:
* Less formal: "Up the hill they went."
* More formal: "They went up the hill."
Tips:
* Consider the context: Think about the audience and the tone of your writing.
* Try rephrasing: If you're unsure, try rephrasing the sentence to avoid starting with a preposition.
Ultimately, it's about choosing the best style for your communication. While starting with a preposition might be less formal, it's not always wrong.