Prepositions

A comment from reader Lisa C. on the use of “at” at the end of sentences sparked this month’s focus on prepositions.  She wrote, “When any one of us would end a sentence with "at," my mother or father would quickly say "behind the a and the t, or between the a and the t."  It didn't take long to ‘break us’ from the misusage.“

So, what’s wrong with ending with “at”?  Well, it adds nothing to the meaning, and it’s redundant because the sentence is complete without it.  It’s one of several prepositions that we often use that should be left out. 

            Where did that dog go [to]?
            Your eyes are too near [to] your book!
            The plate fell off [of] the counter.
            The strike is now over [with].

Each of the prepositions within the brackets is superfluous. 

Now, what about that old idea (not a rule!) that we couldn’t end sentences with prepositions?  Has that changed?  Yes, it has, quite a while ago.  We can, if they’re necessary and help the reader or listener understand your thought.  To rewrite the sentence might make it more grammatically correct (to some), but it also might make it sound awkward or stilted.

Natural:          Who did she go with?  
Stilted:           With whom did she go?

            Natural:          Sometimes it’s hard to know what you’re thinking about.
            Awkward:       Sometimes it’s hard to know about what you’re thinking.

            Natural:          What fiber is that jacket made of?
            Awkward:       Of what fiber is that jacket made?

On the other hand, there are some prepositions many of us leave out that are necessary! 

            Paul needs to buy a couple of books.
            We don’t have that type of computer here.
            Frank will graduate from high school this spring.

Bottom line:  Use your prepositions carefully.