Legal Definitions - e.g.,

The abbreviation e.g. stands for the Latin phrase exempli gratia, which translates to "for the sake of example" or "for example."

In both legal and general writing, e.g. is used to introduce one or more examples that illustrate a preceding statement or concept. Its primary function is to signal that the examples provided are not exhaustive but merely representative of a larger group or category. It implies that many other similar examples could have been given.

When used, e.g. should always be followed by a comma.

Here are some examples illustrating its use:

• Example 1 (Legal Policy Context):

  A government agency's guidance document on workplace discrimination might state: "Employers must ensure a workplace free from harassment based on protected characteristics, e.g., race, religion, gender, or national origin."

  Explanation: This example uses e.g. to show that race, religion, gender, and national origin are just a few common types of "protected characteristics." The list is not exhaustive, and other characteristics (like age or disability) also fall under anti-discrimination protections.

• Example 2 (Contractual Agreement Context):

  A software license agreement might include a clause stating: "Unauthorized uses of the software include, e.g., reverse engineering, sublicensing, or distributing copies to third parties."

  Explanation: Here, e.g. clarifies that reverse engineering, sublicensing, and distributing copies are illustrative examples of "unauthorized uses." It indicates that the prohibition extends to other similar unauthorized actions not specifically listed in the contract.

• Example 3 (General Information Context):

  A financial advisor might recommend diversifying investments across different asset classes, e.g., stocks, bonds, real estate, or mutual funds.

  Explanation: In this scenario, e.g. introduces specific investment types like stocks, bonds, real estate, and mutual funds as examples of "different asset classes." It suggests that while these are common choices, there are other asset classes that could also be considered for diversification.