Do you know the difference between i.e. and e.g.?
As a communication professional, I write a great deal of content. And I have to be diligent in using correct grammar because simple grammar mistakes can make me appear unprofessional, hurt the brands I am working with, and even cause viewers and customers to click away.
And, for a long time i.e. and e.g. confused me. Whenever I needed to use these abbreviations, I wound up wasting time searching for an article that demonstrated proper usage. So, I needed to come up with a simple way to remember when and how to use them.
Here is a quick tip I use that will give you the confidence to use these abbreviations freely.
i.e. vs. e.g. –
i.e.
Think “that is” when using i.e. –
Tonight I am headed down to the Watering Hole, i.e. the new bar downtown.
e.g.
Think “for example” when using e.g. –
Some of my favorite foods include those found in a typical breakfast, e.g., eggs, pancakes, bacon, and sausage.
My mnemonic device:
Long after you’ve read this blog, I hope that you remember when to use i.e. vs e.g.
A simple way to remember is to use a mnemonic device.
Here is how I remember:
When I am considering which is the appropriate abbreviation, I try replacing them with two different phrases. The phrase which best conveys what I am trying to say tells me which one to use.
Phrase 1: “That is” – if this phrase fits, then i.e. is the abbreviation you want.
Phrase 2: “For example” – if this phrase fits, then e.g. is the abbreviation you want
Tip: if you remember the phrase “that is” includes the letter “i,” which is the first letter of “i.e.,” and the phrase “for example” includes the letter “e,” which is the first letter of “e.g.,” you’ll have confidence that you have used the correct version.
NOTE: One of my favorite books on grammar and punctuation is Eats, Shoots & Leaves by Lynne Truss.
What grammatical mistakes do you make? Let me know in the comments below
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Ok, that’s all for today. Good luck out there!
#CreateSomethingGreat
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