i.e. and e.g. both come from Latin and both appear in parentheses, so they're easy to mix up. They do very different jobs.

The short answer #

Abbreviation Meaning Use it to
e.g. for example give one or more examples
i.e. that is / in other words clarify or restate exactly

e.g. = for example #

Use e.g. when the list is not complete. There are other possibilities.

  • Bring a snack (e.g., fruit or nuts).
  • Many apps, e.g., Mail and Notes, support copy and paste.

i.e. = that is #

Use i.e. when you're specifying exactly what you mean. There's only one answer.

  • Send it by the deadline (i.e., Friday at 5 p.m.).
  • Use the biggest size, i.e., the 6.9-inch screenshot.

A memory trick #

  • e.g. = example given
  • i.e. = in essence

Punctuation #

  • Write both with a period after each letter: e.g., i.e.
  • In American English, a comma usually follows them: (e.g., apples). British English often leaves the comma out.
  • Don't add etc. after e.g.: the list is already open-ended.

Common mistakes #

Wrong Right
My favorite colors, i.e. blue and green, … (if you have more favorites) My favorite colors, e.g., blue and green, …
Use the main door (e.g., the one facing the street). Use the main door (i.e., the one facing the street).
e.g. apples, pears, etc. e.g., apples and pears

Get a second opinion #

Not sure? AI Grammar Checker checks abbreviations and punctuation along with your grammar.