“i.e.” vs. “e.g.”: What They Mean and When to Use Them

Abbreviations like “i.e.” and “e.g.” are widely used in English writing, particularly in essays, articles, and everyday messages. Both “i.e.” and “e.g.” originate from Latin, but they’re now used in modern English to clarify or give examples.

Here’s a simple guide that explains their meanings and shows you how to use them correctly.

Both i.e. and e.g. come from Latin, which is why they can feel a little intimidating at first:

• i.e. is short for id est, which literally means “that is.”
• e.g. comes from exempli gratia, which means “for the sake of example” or simply “for example.”

Although Latin may seem ancient and academic, these abbreviations have become ingrained in English writing because they allow us to clarify or illustrate our meaning quickly without lengthy explanations.

The abbreviation “i.e.” is used to give a clear explanation. It works almost like saying “specifically” or “in other words.”

When you use it, you’re not just giving a random example – you’re making the meaning more precise or offering the only possible definition.

Examples:

• I only enjoy one type of TV show (i.e., detective dramas).
  Here, you’re not saying detective dramas are one of many examples; you’re saying they’re the only type of show you enjoy.
• Students must complete the core subjects (i.e., math, science, English, and history).
  This indicates a comprehensive list – precisely which subjects are included and no others.

When in doubt, ask yourself: Am I clarifying all of something? If yes, then i.e. is your friend.

The term e.g. is the abbreviation you use when you’re giving examples, not the whole picture. It means “for example” and suggests that there are more possibilities beyond the ones listed.

Examples:

• I enjoy outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, biking, kayaking).
  This doesn’t mean those are the only outdoor activities you like – just some good illustrations.
• Some European cities (e.g., Paris, Rome, and Berlin) are famous for their history.
  Of course, there are many more European cities with rich history, but these three serve as helpful examples.

If you’re not giving the whole definition but just showing a few options, e.g., it is the right choice.

Think of these simple memory tricks:

• “i.e.” = “in essence” (complete explanation)
• “e.g.” = “example given” (partial examples)

Both abbreviations follow the same punctuation pattern:

• Both abbreviations should always have periods: i.e. and e.g.
• They work well inside parentheses, but you can also use them in the flow of a sentence.

Examples:

•  I enjoy outdoor activities (i.e., hiking, cycling, and swimming).
• Some European countries (e.g., France, Germany, Italy) have excellent train systems.

Don’t use “and etc.” after “e.g.” Since “e.g.” already implies there are more examples, adding “etc.” is redundant.

• Incorrect: I like warm drinks (e.g., coffee, tea, and etc.).
• Correct: I like warm drinks (e.g., coffee and tea).

Don’t confuse their purposes. Remember that “i.e.” gives you everything, while “e.g.” gives you some things.

Choose “i.e.” when you want to:

• Provide a complete definition
• Clarify exactly what you mean
• Give the full scope of something

Choose “e.g.” when you want to:

• Offer some examples
• Illustrate your point without being exhaustive
• Keep your writing concise while providing context

If Latin abbreviations feel too formal for your writing, use these English alternatives:

• Instead of “i.e.”: “that is,” “in other words,” “specifically,” or “namely”
• Instead of “e.g.”: “for example,” “such as,” “like,” or “including”

Example with alternatives: “I prefer indoor hobbies, such as reading and cooking” instead of “I prefer indoor hobbies (e.g., reading and cooking)."

In summary, use “i.e.” to clarify what you mean, and use “e.g.” to provide some examples.