What’s the Difference Between “i.e.” and “e.g.”?

“e.g.” vs. “i.e”

E.g. and i.e. are two abbreviations that are commonly used in written English. They can be extremely useful while writing, as they help keep your text clear and concise.

However, e.g. and i.e. can’t be used interchangeably. Below, we’ll go over what e.g. and i.e. stand for and show you how to use them in your writing correctly.

What Does “e.g.” Mean?

E.g. is an abbreviation for the Latin expression “exempli gratia,” which translates to “for the sake of the example.” As you may have guessed, e.g. is used to introduce examples.

We read several books by Dan Brown (e.g., “Angels & Demons”, “The Da Vinci Code”, and “Inferno”).

Popular to contrary belief, e.g. does not stand for example given. However, example given can still be used as a mnemonic device to help you remember that e.g. precedes examples.

Remember, e.g. is one of many alternatives you can use in place of for example.

How To Use “e.g.” in a Sentence

It’s important to use proper punctuation when using e.g. in a sentence to avoid confusing your audience.

E.g. can be found within a sentence with or without parentheses.

We’re going to take the campers on several activities (e.g., kayaking, swimming, and rock climbing).

My physical trainer taught me many exercises, e.g., deadlifts, squats, and lunges.

E.g. should always contain a period before and after the “g,” and a comma after it. This holds true whether you’re using them within parentheses or not.

There’s so much I have to bake (e.g., cake, cookies, and cupcakes).

There’s so much I have to bake, e.g., cake, cookies, and cupcakes.

When not using e.g. within parentheses, it’s common to find a comma before it in addition to the one after. However, this varies depending on which style guide you’re following.

What Does “i.e.” Mean?

I.e. is also an abbreviation for a Latin expression: “id est,” which translates to “that is.”

I find comfort in unusual things (i.e., cleaning the entire house).

I.e. is used to elaborate or clarify the previous statement. It does not introduce examples. Although i.e. does not stand for “in essence,” you can use that as a mnemonic device.

How To Use “i.e.” in a Sentence

I.e. follows the same punctuation rules as e.g.

So, you can find it being used within a sentence with or without parentheses.

He always remembers the small details (i.e., I prefer butter to cream cheese on my bagels).

He always remembers the small details, i.e., I prefer butter to cream cheese on my bagels.

I.e. must always have a period before and after the “e,” along with a comma after the period, regardless of whether you’re using it in parentheses or not.

I learned about love languages (i.e., mine being physical touch and words of affirmation).

I learned about love languages, i.e., mine being physical touch and words of affirmation).

When not being used within parentheses, i.e. is also commonly found with a comma preceding it.

Zack is passionate about conservation efforts, i.e., planting trees, recycling, picking up trash, and cleaning up beaches.

Keep in mind that both i.e. and e.g. are always lowercase and do not need to be italicized.

Use “i.e.” vs. “e.g.” Correctly In Your Writing

I.e. and e.g. are incredibly useful while writing.

Use the mnemonic device “example given” to remind you that e.g. is what precedes a brief list of examples. “In essence” can help you remember that “i.e.” is what precedes an elaboration or clarification.

If you want to make sure you’re using correct punctuation while using these abbreviations, use LanguageTool as your writing assistant. Not only will this advanced spelling and grammar checker correct punctuation errors, but it can also easily provide synonyms or rephrased sentences. Plus, it supports over thirty languages and is free to try!