E.g. or I.e.?

So what's the difference between "e.g." and "i.e."?

These two come from Latin and they are quite common in English writing.

Here is a short explanation on what they mean and how to use them properly.

E.g.

E.g. stands for the Latin phrase "exempli gratia," which means "for example." 

Examples:

• Big cities, e.g. New York, London and Tokyo offer more exciting activities.
• You should hang out more with people in your own age, e.g. Tom and Kate.
• Tropical fruit, e.g. bananas, mangoes and avocados, are shipped throughout the world.

I.e.

I.e. stands for the Latin phrase "id est," which means "that is." 

You use this "i.e." when you want to explain exactly what something means.

 

Examples: 

• He is rather confused, i.e. he is not sure what to do.
• We are going on a short vacation, i.e. 3-4 days.
• Since Linda is moving to the north,  i.e. Montreal in Canada, we can't see each other any more.

So the difference is that with "e.g." you are just giving an example, whereas with "i.e." you are explaining exactly what it means.

Quiz

Which of the following sentences is incorrect?

1. John likes vegetables, i.e. lettuce and carrots.
2. Many countries, e.g. France and Italy, will participate.
3. My family, i.e. my parents and brothers, won't agree to this.
4. Farm animals, e.g. cows and sheep, need natural food.