E.g. means ‘for example’ (from the Latin ‘exempli gratia’) while i.e. means ‘in other words’ or ‘that is’ (from the Latin ‘id est’).

We use e.g. to give examples of what we’re suggesting.

“We’ll hold the conference somewhere fairly central, e.g. Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Leicester.”

“You’re going to have do something with this report, e.g. add some images, use a bigger font, get Sam to look at it.”

Whereas, i.e. is more specific, giving further explanation of what you mean.

“We’ll need a large hotel for the conference, i.e. The Marriot or The Hilton.”

“You’re going to have to improve this report, i.e. add some images of the building, go to 24 poibt on the headings, tell Sam she’s working through lunch.”

See more grammar tips.

Photo by Jackie K. B. Ayres on Unsplash