What is the difference between e.g. and i.e.?

'e.g.' comes from the Latin 'exempli gratia' meaning 'for example' — it introduces one or more examples from a larger group (I like citrus fruits, e.g., oranges and lemons). 'i.e.' comes from 'id est' meaning 'that is' — it clarifies or restates the exact meaning of something (Use the main entrance, i.e., the one facing the street).

How do I remember e.g. vs i.e.?

Think 'e.g.' = 'example given' (both start with E). Think 'i.e.' = 'in essence' or 'in other words' (both start with I). If you can replace the phrase with 'for example', use e.g. If you can replace it with 'that is to say', use i.e.

e.g. vs. i.e.: What's the Difference?

Quick Answer

e.g. = "for example" — introduces examples from a larger group

i.e. = "that is" — clarifies or restates exactly what you mean

Explanation

E.G. (for example)

Latin: exempli gratia

Introduces a non-exhaustive list of examples

"I enjoy winter sports, e.g., skiing and skating."

"Bring warm clothes, e.g., a coat or sweater."

I.E. (that is)

Latin: id est

Restates or clarifies — gives the complete, exact meaning

"Use the back entrance, i.e., the one by the parking lot."

"We meet biweekly, i.e., twice a month."

Memory trick: e.g. = "exact given examples" (a sample). i.e. = "in essence" (the full, precise meaning). Both abbreviations are typically followed by a comma in American English.

Examples

✔She speaks several languages, e.g., French and German. (examples, not the full list)

✔The deadline is the end of the quarter, i.e., March 31st. (exact clarification)

✔Bring identification, e.g., a passport or driver's license. (examples)

✔Only full-time staff, i.e., those working 40 hours a week, qualify. (precise definition)

✘I like fruits, i.e. apples and bananas.

Common Mistakes

Incorrect: Please bring snacks, i.e. chips or cookies.

Correct: Please bring snacks, e.g., chips or cookies. (these are just examples, not the only options)

Incorrect: The meeting is next week, e.g., Tuesday.

Correct: The meeting is next week, i.e., Tuesday. (this is the exact day, not an example)

Practice

Choose the correct abbreviation:

"We need office supplies, _____, pens and paper. The order must arrive by the due date, _____, this Friday."