Write Right A column by Suzanne Kaiser
Know what Latin initials mean
Similar words, e.g., assume, presume, can be confusing.
A Column by Suzanne Kaiser

Q. Could you explain “i.e.” and “e.g.”? I see these initials used often, but I have no idea what their meaning or purpose is.

A. Both of these sets of initials represent Latin words (please don’t ask me what Latin words!), but I do know the English translation. The letters “i.e.” are used to mean “in other words.” For example, “My holiday season has been very hectic, i.e., all the relatives have been in town.”

The letters “e.g.” mean “for example,” such as, “I really enjoy all the seasonal drinks this time of year (e.g., egg nog, cider, wassail).” A punctuation note: both “i.e.” and “e.g.” should be followed by commas —even though they already include two periods!