August 26, 2009
Is it i.e. or e.g.?
As a copy editor, I often find myself correcting the misuse of the terms i.e. and e.g.
These seemingly harmless letter combinations can actually do a lot of damage when used improperly: Not only can they change the meaning of your work, they can also make you look stupid—and no one wants that. So here’s a quick lesson on their proper usage:
i.e.
an abbreviation for the Latin term id est, meaning “that is” or “in other words”
Use i.e. to provide clarification:
Many writers become flummoxed, i.e., frustrated and confused, over the use of i.e. versus e.g.
e.g.
an abbreviation for the Latin term exempli gratia, meaning “for example”
Use e.g. to provide examples:
Perhaps they should turn to the professionals at SmithWriting for help with their writing projects, e.g., advertisements, brochures, and Web sites.
Always put a comma after i.e. and e.g. And be sure to include a period after each letter in both abbreviations.
So, is it i.e. or e.g.?
Since I don’t know Latin, I use this trick to determine which term to use:
I ask myself, “Am I giving examples?” If so, I use e.g. (Reverse the first letters of “giving examples,” and voila!) If not, I use i.e.
Filed by rebecca at 5:29 pm under Grammar guide
Good one to clarify! I too see this misused all the time.
Thanks, Steph! I figured we could all use the quick lesson to sharpen our skills.
exempli gratia is for occasions when examples are required to illustrate a point or statement.
id est provides the definitive example or specific criteria relating to the point or statement
Ave atque Vale!
Very well put, Russell.
Hail and farewell to you, too, you Latin scholar!