The WordSmith
by Darin M. Bush
Attack of the Initials
Please note, The Wordsmith does not claim 100% accuracy. When I make a mistake, or if you disagree,
please email me. Keep in mind, English
grammar is a living creature and sometimes the rules change. Also remember if you follow the rule
correctly, it does not matter how you get there. Sometimes a mnemonic (memory trick) works for
no one but you. Who cares? For example, before I buy soda I look at my
paycheck.
So the important part is not getting the why explained
exactly, but making the correct decision.
Take for example, for example.
(Checked that last sentence twice, and it is correct. Sorry.)
We use examples so much and elaborate so often, a couple of short hand
notations were invented to make things “easier”. I am referring to i.e. and e.g. They mean, respectively, “such as” and “in
example”.
I said earlier remembering is more important than the way you
remember. It applies here
beautifully. If you were really careful,
you might have noticed i.e. does NOT mean “in example”. Huh?
E.g. actually is the abbreviation for the Latin meaning “in
example”. I.e. is the abbreviation for
the Latin meaning “such as” (or close enough).
The key here is the terms are not English, but Latin. So the words “in example” are not even
possible choices.
Let me give you a mnemonic for this initial problem with
initials, i.e.: let me sum up. The way I
decide whether to use e.g. or i.e. is to remember the meanings are “backwards”
if they are English abbreviations! There
are some flaws in this reasoning, e.g.: what does e.g. stand for in
English? However, even with the flawed
logic, I am still able to use the two terms correctly, and that is really the
point, i.e.: the bottom line.
Questions? Suggestions? Please send examples to the Tourette Tiger
Copyright 2003-2005 by Darin M. Bush