i.e.
4 synonyms for i.e., grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Abbreviation — Used before a restatement that explains or defines exactly what has just been said, meaning 'that is' or 'in other words'.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
that is
in other words
How to use i.e.
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
i.e. the following
i.e. in other words
Written English only; say 'that is' or 'in other words' when speaking.
Etymology
An abbreviation of Latin id est, meaning 'that is'.
Full origin of i.e. →Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between i.e. and e.g.?
I.e. introduces a restatement of the whole thing you just mentioned, so what follows is complete and exact. E.g. introduces one or two examples drawn from a larger set. 'Citrus fruit, i.e. fruit of the genus Citrus' defines the term, while 'citrus fruit, e.g. lemons' merely samples it.
Do you put a comma after i.e.?
American style guides generally ask for a comma after i.e.; British style usually leaves it out. Whichever you choose, apply it consistently through a document.
Should i.e. be written with full stops?
The traditional form is i.e. with a full stop after each letter, and this is still standard in edited prose. Some house styles now print it as ie, particularly in British newspapers.
