The differences between i.e. and e.g. are more significant than many think, and misuse of the two abbreviations are abundant. Both i.e. and e.g. are abbreviations for Latin terms. I.e. is short for id est which transliterates as “that is” or “in other words.” E.g. abbreviates exempli gratia. This means “for the sake of the example” but is often translated as “for example.”

Thus one would expect to see i.e. used to clarify or put in other words something previously stated. One might see the following correct usage of i.e.: “Her heart sunk as the ship disappeared into the water; i.e., she was devastated.” Some writers would confuse i.e. and e.g. here, and use e.g. instead. Further, misuse might include i.g, or e.i.

Of course one can avoid the use of i.e. and e.g. completely by substituting “in other words,” for i.e. “Her heart sunk as the ship disappeared into the water. In other words, she was devastated.” Since people are likely to confuse i.e. and e.g., it may be wise to come up with a more simple statement.

E.g. might be expected when one wished to make a list of several examples to further elucidate understanding. For example one might write: “He only likes games played with a bat; e.g. cricket, softball and baseball. Again this could be simplified by writing “He only likes games played with a bat, such as cricket, softball and baseball.

Confusion often occurs in common usage of both i.e. and e.g. because people often assume i.e. means to list examples. This is definitely not the case. The statement, “He only likes games played with a bat; i.e., cricket, softball and baseball,” is incorrect.

Occasionally this confusion occurs because a writer wishes to sound educated and referencing Latin terms like i.e. and e.g. seems educated indeed. This is a common mistake made especially by young writers; e.g. college freshman, junior high, and high school students. However, misuse obviously creates the opposite of an educated feel; i.e., instructors may think you are not very bright.

Instead of perusing the dictionary for hugely impressive words or Latin phrases like i.e. and e.g., the general standard in writing is clear, understandable English. Points should be made without excess of vocabulary. Further, it is always better to use words that you can clearly define rather than to dip into words you think you know the meaning of in order to impress.