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

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

I.e. means 'that is' (to say). E.g. means 'for example'. I.e. is an abbreviation for Latin id est, 'that is'. E.g. stands for exempli gratia, 'for the sake of example'. So you can say, "I like citrus fruits, e.g., oranges and lemons" (for example, oranges and lemons) or you can use it to mean "I like citrus fruits, i.e. the juicy, edible fruits with leathery, aromatic rinds of any of numerous tropical, usually thorny shrubs or trees of the genus Citrus," (that is to say, the juicy, edible fruits...). In the first sentence you are simply giving an instance of a citrus fruit; in the second you are giving an explanation. E.g. indicates an example; i.e. specifies and explains. Compare: She loves to read non-fiction, e.g., reference books and how-to books. / He had one obvious flaw, i.e. his laziness.

The abbreviations e.g. (from the Latin exempli gratia) and i.e. (from the Latin id est) are often confused. This is because they are both used to introduce some clarification of something previously mentioned.

e.g.

The abbreviation e.g. is used to provide an example:

Examples:

• The buffet provided excellent variety, e.g., vegetarian and non-vegetarian soups, Italian and French breads, and numerous sweets.
(e.g. = for example)
• He was the school champion of many activities (e.g., chess, badminton, 110m hurdles, and high jump).
(e.g. = for example)

i.e.

The abbreviation i.e. is used to restate an idea more clearly or offer more information.

Examples:

• It happened in August, i.e., two months ago.
(i.e. = in other words)
• It happened in August, e.g., two months ago.
(e.g. = for example)
• Service charge is included in all prices; i.e., you don't have to leave a tip.
(i.e. = in other words) 

 

(collected)