Like many legal abbreviations, e.g. can be mysterious and intimidating for business professionals. This article will define e.g. and provide some modern examples to demonstrate how it is used.
What Does e.g. Mean?
e.g. is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase “exempli gratia,” which translates to “for example.” It is frequently used in professional and legal writing to introduce examples of the point being made. When writing, it is important to remember that the purpose of e.g. is to provide clarity and context, not to provide a definitive list.
Examples of e.g. in Professional Writing
Here are some examples of how e.g. is used in professional and legal writing:
- The new code of conduct includes a clause regarding harassment. For example, it forbids offensive jokes, e.g., jokes about race, gender, or sexuality.
- At the company meeting, the executives discussed non-compete agreements. These agreements prohibit employees from working for competitors or disclosing confidential information, e.g., trade secrets and customer lists.
As these examples demonstrate, e.g. should be used when you are providing illustrative examples to clarify a point or provide concrete illustrations. It should not be used as a complete list of all the facts or items that are related to the topic.
Conclusion
e.g. is essential for legal and professional writing. It should be used to provide concrete examples of a broader concept or point. Keeping this in mind and using e.g. correctly helps to increase the clarity and accuracy of your writing.