Confusing Abbreviations

[Mahmoud Chawki]

English is a complicated language drawing from many different sources. It is easy to sound foolish or ignorant, especially if you are trying to sound smart by using (and misusing) some of these common phrases.

 

What is the difference between "e.g." and "i.e."?
The abbreviation e.g. stands for the Latin exempli gratia, or "for the sake of example." It means exactly that; a series of examples. The abbreviation i.e. stands for id est, or "that is," and explains the subject you have mentioned.

What is the difference between et al and et cetera?
The Latin phrase et al, short for et alia (and other things) and et alii (and other people), is more specific than et cetera (and the rest). Only et al can refer to people.

Amitiés

Mahmoud Chawki