The Latin abbreviations i.e. and e.g. are integral elements in English writing.  A common problem with their use, however, is that their meanings and purposes often become confused with one another.

The abbreviation i.e. stands for the Latin term id est.  It means “that is,” and it is used to give further specification on an issue.

Ex:  Karrie missed the concert for one reason, i.e., she had to study for an exam.

The example above illustrates how i.e. is used to elaborate on a certain matter.  In this case, i.e. precedes a more specific explanation of the reason Karrie missed the concert.

The abbreviation e.g. stands for the Latin term exempli gratia.  It means “for example.”

Ex:  Jesse enjoys participating in several different outdoor activities, e.g., camping, skiing, and hiking.

In this sentence, e.g. precedes a list of examples of outdoor activities that Jesse enjoys participating in. 

*Please note that the proper punctuation of these abbreviations includes commas before and afterward, and periods after each letter:  ,i.e., and ,e.g.,

Along with our website, we recommend the following site:  The Capital Community College Foundation’s Guide to Grammar and Writing.  This site offers valuable writing and grammar tips, quizzes and PowerPoint presentations designed to help writers broaden their horizons.

Test your understanding by choosing the correct abbreviation in each of the following sentences.

1. My evening went smoothly except for one small problem, (i.e. /e.g.), my DVD player stopped working.

2. Scott would like to attend the party, but he has so many chores to do, (i.e. /e.g.), clean the house, wash the car, and pay the bills.

3. Sharon’s diligence is reflected in her exam grades this semester, (i.e. /e.g.), she has made A’s on all of them.

Answers

1. My evening went smoothly except for one small problem, i.e., my DVD player stopped working.

2. Scott would like to attend the party, but he has so many chores to do, e.g., clean the house, wash the car, and pay the bills.

3. Sharon’s diligence is reflected in her exam grades this semester, i.e., she has made A’s on all of them.

Grammatically Correct is a grammar tip of the week created by Academic Center Peer Writing Tutors at the University of Houston-Victoria in Victoria, Texas.

Comments about this newsletter should be directed to Summer Leibensperger, leibenspergers@uhv.edu.

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