E.G. and I.E.

Two common abbreviations commonly misused are the versatile e.g. and i.e.

BACKGROUND

e.g. stands for the Latin phrase "exempli gratia" [for the sake of example]. Use it where you would use the synonym "for example."

i.e. stands for the Latin phrase "id est" [that is]. Use it where you would use the synonym "in other words."

RHETORICAL USAGE

In general, formal writing uses i.e. and e.g. only in parenthetical situations. If you wish to introduce an example or restate an idea in the main part of a sentence, use the plain English phrases "for example" and "in other words." In fact, some style manuals now call on writers to avoid Latin abbreviations entirely.

SOME TECHNICAL POINTS For this assignment, follow these guidelines, even though different style sheets may vary on some of these particulars.

The abbreviations appear in lower-case letters even if they are at the beginning of a clause or phrase

-- Separate the letters with periods

-- Follow the abbreviation with a comma

-- Because e.g. suggests a partial list, it's redundant to end the list with etc.

SOME EXAMPLES

-- Everyone enjoys studying verbals (i.e., gerunds, participials, and infinitives).

-- I look forward to the mournful Christmas songs (e.g., "O Come O Come Emmanuel").