Should you end a sentence with proposition?

It's generally considered incorrect to end a sentence with a preposition in formal writing. This is a holdover from a prescriptive grammar rule that originated in the 18th century.

Here's the reasoning behind the rule:

* Latin Influence: Latin, the source of many English grammatical rules, doesn't allow prepositions to end sentences. This influence led to the belief that ending with a preposition was grammatically incorrect in English.

* Clarity and Flow: Some argue that ending with a preposition can make a sentence sound awkward or unclear, especially in complex sentences.

However, there are exceptions and nuances:

* Natural Sound: In casual conversation and informal writing, ending sentences with prepositions is perfectly acceptable. It often sounds more natural and idiomatic.

* Avoidance of Awkwardness: Sometimes, avoiding a preposition at the end of a sentence can lead to an even more awkward or stilted construction. In these cases, it's best to choose the option that sounds most natural.

* Formal vs. Informal: The "rule" is more strictly adhered to in formal writing, such as academic essays and legal documents.

Examples:

* Formal: "Who did you go to?" (Incorrect)

* Formal: "To whom did you go?" (Correct)

* Informal: "Who did you go to?" (Acceptable)

In summary: While it's good to be aware of the rule, there's no need to be overly strict about it. The best approach is to choose the option that sounds most natural and fits the context of your writing.