Those who studied Latin have an advantage over us high-school Spanish and French students. They know the origin of the abbreviations “i.e.” and “e.g.”
Etymology aside, here’s what those abbreviations mean.
- i.e. = that is. Remember the “i” here. That will be your clue for the word “is.”
- e.g. = for example. Think of how “example” sounds — you could almost replace the “x” with a “g.” That’s your clue here.
Here are examples on how to use them.
- The best time for me to relax is when I know I’ve finished all of my freelance work and household chores, i.e., Sunday afternoons.
- I find it difficult to relate to people who are stuck in their ways, i.e., close-minded.
- It always seems like there’s traffic when you’re in a rush, e.g., running late for a flight or on your way home from work for date night.
- I like bright colors, e.g., orange, yellow and sky blue.
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