e.g. vs. i.e.

Linguistic Reminder

(This reminder is available in English only.)

Problem

The abbreviations e.g. and i.e. are often confused. While both abbreviations introduce additional information, they have different meanings and cannot be used interchangeably.

Solution

The term e.g. is the abbreviation for the Latin exempli gratia, meaning "for the sake of example." If you can substitute "for example" in a sentence, e.g. is correct.

The term i.e. is the abbreviation for the Latin id est, meaning "that is." If you can substitute "that is," "in other words" or "namely," i.e. is correct.

Use "e.g."	Use "i.e."
to introduce one or more examples: The doctor suggested Donna practise a calming exercise (e.g. yoga) to control her blood pressure. Bernie enjoys a fruity Pinot Noir with game bird, e.g., duck, quail, pheasant.	to rephrase or explain what was just said: My grandmother’s youngest daughter, i.e. my aunt Sarah, recently remarried for the third time. Many soldiers have been killed by friendly fire—i.e., firing by one’s own side that causes injury or death to one’s own forces or to an ally.

Use "e.g."

Use "i.e."

to introduce one or more examples:

The doctor suggested Donna practise a calming exercise (e.g. yoga) to control her blood pressure.
Bernie enjoys a fruity Pinot Noir with game bird, e.g., duck, quail, pheasant.

to rephrase or explain what was just said:

My grandmother’s youngest daughter, i.e. my aunt Sarah, recently remarried for the third time.
Many soldiers have been killed by friendly fire—i.e., firing by one’s own side that causes injury or death to one’s own forces or to an ally.

Note: Unlike other abbreviations for Latin words or phrases, e.g. and i.e. are not italicized.

Punctuation

Internal: Both abbreviations contain two periods (one after each letter):

e.g. (not eg.)
i.e. (not ie.)

Before: As in the examples above, use a comma (or another mark of punctuation, such as a dash) before these abbreviations when they are not in parentheses.

After: A comma is optional after these abbreviations. (Use of a comma is American style; omission of the comma is British style.)

Linguistic Recommendation reference number

REM-39/2013-11

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