Ie vs. Eg — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 7, 2023
"I.e." is an abbreviation for the Latin phrase "id est," meaning "that is." It is used to clarify or provide specific information. "E.g." stands for "exempli gratia," translating to "for example," and is used to provide examples.
Difference Between Ie and Eg
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"I.e." stems from the Latin term "id est." This phrase directly translates to "that is" in English. The primary function of "i.e." in a sentence is to introduce a rephrasing or a clarification of a term or idea previously presented. On the other hand, "e.g." is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase "exempli gratia." It is commonly employed in English sentences to offer examples of a previously mentioned concept or category.
When using "i.e.," the writer attempts to clarify something by rephrasing it or providing a concise explanation. It is a tool to ensure that the reader understands a point by giving them an alternative description or clarification of it. In contrast, "e.g." is utilized to introduce one or more possible examples of the point being discussed, not to explain or rephrase it.
A critical distinction to remember is that "i.e." tends to narrow down information, giving a specific detail or clarification about a general point made previously. Contrarily, "e.g." broadens the scope, providing additional instances or examples without limiting the concept to the examples provided.
A sentence with "i.e." might read: "She enjoys playing woodwind instruments, i.e., the flute and clarinet." This signals that the flute and clarinet are the specific woodwind instruments she enjoys playing. An example with "e.g." might be: "She enjoys playing woodwind instruments, e.g., the flute and clarinet." Here, the flute and clarinet are merely examples, and she may enjoy playing other woodwind instruments as well.
Considering the placement in a sentence, both "i.e." and "e.g." are typically followed by a comma in American English. This is a stylistic choice, adhering to the convention of providing a pause after each term, even though it's not adopted universally (e.g., in British English).
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Comparison Chart
Latin Origin
Id est
Exempli gratia
English Meaning
That is
For example
Purpose in Sentence
Clarify or rephrase
Provide examples
Effect on Scope
Narrows information
Broadens with additional instances
Comma Usage
Typically followed by a comma
Usually followed by a comma
Compare with Definitions
Ie
I.e. rephrases information.
She adopted a feline, i.e., a domestic cat.
Eg
E.g. provides non-limiting instances.
He enjoys outdoor activities, e.g., hiking and cycling.
Ie
I.e. introduces a clarification.
He loves citrus fruits, i.e., those high in vitamin C.
Eg
E.g. implies other possibilities.
Various animals, e.g., lions and tigers, can be seen at the zoo.
Ie
I.e. provides a specific instance or explanation.
Please use a secure method, i.e., encryption, to protect the data.
Eg
E.g. introduces examples.
Bring some fruits, e.g., apples or bananas.
Ie
I.e. conveys equivalent information.
He works in ICT, i.e., Information and Communication Technology.
Eg
E.g. precedes illustrative items.
She likes reading classic novels, e.g., those by Jane Austen.
Ie
I.e. is employed to give precise details.
She visits only once a year, i.e., every Christmas.
Eg
E.g. suggests, without specificity.
You might bring snacks, e.g., chips or cookies, to the party.
Ie
That is to say; in other words
Eg
Alternative form of e.g.
Common Curiosities
What does "e.g." stand for?
"e.g." stands for "exempli gratia," a Latin phrase that translates to "for example."
Can "i.e." and "e.g." be used interchangeably?
No, "i.e." is used for clarification or rephrasing, while "e.g." is used to give examples.
What does "i.e." stand for?
"i.e." stands for the Latin phrase "id est," which translates to "that is" in English.
Can "i.e." and "e.g." be used at the start of a sentence?
Although grammatically acceptable, it’s uncommon and often avoided in formal writing.
Can a sentence end with "i.e." or "e.g."?
It’s uncommon and generally avoided, especially in formal writing. Complete the thought or restructure the sentence.
Should "i.e." and "e.g." be used in formal writing?
Yes, they can be used in formal writing, but ensure they are used correctly and consider your audience’s familiarity with them.
When should I use "i.e." in a sentence?
Use "i.e." when you want to provide a clarification, explanation, or specify something mentioned.
When should I use "e.g." in a sentence?
Use "e.g." when you want to provide one or more examples, without implying that the list is exhaustive.
What is a frequent error involving "e.g." usage?
Often, "e.g." is erroneously used when a clarification, not an example, is intended, which is where "i.e." should be utilized.
What is a common mistake involving "i.e." usage?
A common mistake is using "i.e." when listing examples, which is the role of "e.g."
Is it correct to write “and etc.” after "e.g."?
No, "e.g." already implies that the list is not exhaustive, so “etc.” is redundant.
Should a comma follow "i.e." and "e.g."?
In American English, typically yes. A comma should follow both "i.e." and "e.g."
Should "i.e." and "e.g." be italicized?
Generally, no. Italicization of these abbreviations is considered outdated.
Can "i.e." and "e.g." be used in parentheses?
Yes, both can be used within parentheses for additional clarifications or examples in a sentence.
Should “i.e.” and “e.g.” be avoided in academic writing?
They are accepted but often spelled out (“that is” and “for example”) to avoid confusion and maintain formality.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
