The difference between i.e. and e.g. (plus how to remember)

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The difference between i.e. and e.g. has confounded many writers, including this one back in the day. Not to mention keeping the difference straight once you learn it. I have a trick that works! But first things first.

Let’s discuss the difference between i.e. and e.g.

In Latin, i.e. stands for “id est,” which means “that is.” So, use “i.e.” when you mean “that is” or “in other words.”

In Latin, e.g. stands for “exempli gratia,” which means “for example. So, use “e.g.” when you mean “for example.”

Now, here’s the trick!

  • Think of the e in e.g. and the e in example to help you remember. Some people also use a phonetic trick: “For eggsample.” (And the “eg” in “eggsample” reminds them that’s what the abbreviation stands for.)
  • Likewise, think of the i in i.e. and the first word of the phrase “in other words.” Both begin with the letter i.

OK, here are some examples that demonstrate the difference between i.e. and e.g. in sentences.

1. If George Clooney were ever to speak to me, I’d probably get all supercalifragilisticexpialidocious (i.e., I’d sputter nonsense for lack of anything brilliant to say).

2. I love anything with chocolate (e.g., ice cream, cakes, pies, etc.).

Update: I caught Get Shorty on the telly the other day.

Here’s a funny (NSFW) scene that demonstrates the i.e. vs. e.g. conundrum.

Language is fun. Here’s the writing reference book I recommend to help you keep things like i.e. vs e.g. straight.

I still have my copy (although it’s the fifth edition). The version I’m linking to here is the 10th: A Writer’s Reference by Diana Hacker and Nancy Sommers. Note: This is an Amazon affiliate link. If you buy, it won’t cost you more, but I’ll earn a small commission.