In writing, many writers often confuse the placement of the comma Before or After for example. To help you know the rules and use commas properly, this guide shares practical tips and real-world advice. As a beginner, I once learned that placing a comma before “for example” is usually correct, but understanding when to place it after can sharpen your grammar skills and make your sentences flow more naturally.
The key is to keep your writing clear and professional, while letting your ideas move smoothly. This advice will polish your writing and give you a comprehensive understanding of how to write clearer and more effective sentences. With some practice, writers can master these rules and improve their overall communication.
What Does “For Example” Do in Writing?
At its core, “for example” introduces an illustration or a clarification to your statement. It tells your reader, “Here’s a case or instance that supports or explains what I just said.”
Think of it as a signpost. It points your reader toward additional information or specific details that make your point clearer.
Difference Between “For Example” and Similar Phrases
Writers often confuse “for example” with phrases like “such as,” “like,” or the abbreviation “e.g.” While all these serve a similar function, their usage and punctuation differ.
| Phrase | Use Case | Comma Usage Example |
| For example | Introducing an illustration or example | Many fruits are tropical, for example, mangoes and papayas. |
| Such as | Introducing examples within a list | Tropical fruits, such as mangoes and papayas, are delicious. |
| Like | Informal comparison | Tropical fruits like mangoes are sweet. |
| E.g. | Latin abbreviation meaning “for example” | Tropical fruits (e.g., mangoes and papayas) are popular worldwide. |
Key takeaway: Use “for example” when you want a clear, explicit introduction to an example, often set off by commas for clarity.
Core Rules for Using Commas with “For Example”
Correct comma placement is essential for readability and grammar. Here are the core rules for commas around “for example”:
When to Use a Comma Before “For Example”
You place a comma before “for example” when it introduces a clause or list that explains or illustrates the preceding statement.
Example:
Many animals can survive in harsh environments, for example, camels and arctic foxes.
The comma signals a pause, showing the reader that an example is coming.
When to Use a Comma After “For Example”
Generally, you use a comma after “for example” when it appears at the beginning of a sentence or clause.
Example:
For example, many animals have developed unique survival skills.
Here, the comma helps set off “for example” from the rest of the sentence.
When to Use Commas Both Before and After (“Parenthetical Use”)
When “for example” interrupts a sentence mid-thought, it behaves like a parenthetical phrase, so you need commas before and after.
Example:
Many animals, for example, camels and arctic foxes, have adapted to extreme environments.
This use keeps the sentence balanced and clear.
When NOT to Use a Comma with “For Example”
Avoid commas when “for example” is tightly integrated into the sentence without a natural pause or when it follows “such as” or “like” directly.
Example:
Fruits, for example, le apples and ban,, anas are healthy snacks. (Incorrect)
Corrected:
Fruits,, for example, apples and bananas, are healthy snacks. (Better, but still awkward)
Better still:
Fruits, for example, apples and bananas, are healthy snacks.
Positioning “For Example” in a Sentence
The placement of “for example” influences comma use. Here’s a breakdown:
At the Beginning of a Sentence
When you start a sentence with “for example,” it should be followed by a comma.
For example, many people enjoy hiking in the summer.
This format sets the tone for the example clearly.
Mid-Sentence Placement
When “for example” appears in the middle of a sentence, it’s usually parenthetical and requires commas both before and after.
Many summer activities, for example, hiking and swimming, are popular.
At the End of a Sentence
If you place “for example” at the end of a sentence, commas are typically unnecessary.
Many people enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and swimming, for example.
However, this sentence feels awkward and is less common. It’s better to position “for example” at the start or mid-sentence.
Common Sentence Structures Involving “For Example”
Understanding how “for example” interacts with sentence structures makes your writing smoother.
Serial Lists and Commas with “For Example”
When introducing examples in lists, “for example” often comes before the list, which itself is separated by commas.
Many fruits are tropical, for example, mangoes, papayas, and pineapples.
Notice that commas separate items in the list, but the comma before “for example” signals the start of examples.
Clauses and Compound Sentences
In compound sentences, “for example” introduces an explanatory clause that often requires commas.
I enjoy outdoor sports, for example, hiking and mountain biking.
No comma should separate independent clauses joined by “and” or “but” here, except when needed for clarity around “for example.”
Parentheses and Dashes with “For Example”
Sometimes, writers use parentheses or dashes to isolate examples for emphasis.
- Using parentheses: Many fruits (for example, mangoes and papayas) are tropical.
- Using dashes: Many fruits—for example, mangoes and papayas—are tropical.
Both methods set off the example clearly but depend on the style and tone of writing.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even experienced writers slip up with commas and “for example.” Here are pitfalls to watch out for:
Overusing Commas Around “For Example”
Using too many commas can break the flow and confuse readers.
Mistake:
Many animals, for example, camelsand arctic foxes, have adapted.
The extra comma after camels is unnecessary and interrupts the list.
Confusing “For Example” with “E.g.” Punctuation Rules
“E.g.” always comes with parentheses and commas differently than “for example.”
Incorrect:
Fruits, e.g., apples and bananas, are healthy.
Correct:
Fruits (e.g., apples and bananas) are healthy.
Misplaced Commas That Disrupt Meaning
Placing commas in the wrong spots can change the sentence’s meaning.
Example:
Let’s eat, Grandma! vs. Let’s eat grandma!
Though unrelated to “for example,” it illustrates the power of correct comma use.
Style and Readability Considerations
Beyond grammar, comma placement affects how your writing sounds and feels.
Balancing Traditional Rules with Conversational Tone
Strict grammar sometimes clashes with how people speak. When writing for the web or casual readers, favor readability.
How Comma Placement Affects Reader Understanding
Pauses created by commas guide readers through your thoughts. Too many or too few commas confuse rather than clarify.
When to Prioritize Readability Over Strict Rules
In some cases, skipping a comma might feel more natural and less choppy, especially in dialogue or informal writing.
Advanced Scenarios with “For Example”
More complex sentences challenge comma use with “for example.”
Handling Multiple Examples and Nested Punctuation
Many fruits, for example, mangoes (which are sweet) and papayas (which are juicy), are tropical.
Nested parentheses require careful punctuation to avoid confusion.
Examples from Published Writing
The New York Times often uses commas around “for example” to maintain flow:
Many athletes, for example, have adapted their training during the pandemic.
Quick Reference Guide: Comma Placement with “For Example”
| Position in Sentence | Comma Placement | Example |
| Beginning | Comma after “for example” | For example, many people like hiking. |
| Middle (parenthetical) | Comma before and after | Many fruits, for example, apples, are sweet. |
| End | Usually no comma | Many people enjoy fruits,for example. (Avoid; awkward) |
| Before “for example” | Comma before when introducing an example | Many sports, for example, soccer and tennis, are popular. |
Conclusion:
Mastering comma use with “for example” is simpler than it looks. The key is knowing whether “for example” acts as an introductory phrase, a parenthetical interruption, or a sentence starter. Using commas correctly makes your writing clearer and easier to read.
Remember:
- Put a comma after “for example” when it begins a sentence.
- Use commas before and after when they interrupt a sentence.
- Place a comma before “for example” when it introduces examples after a statement.
- Avoid unnecessary commas that break flow or confuse readers.
Practice reading your sentences aloud to see if the commas create natural pauses. With time, you’ll instinctively know when to pause and when to keep the sentence moving.
“Grammar is the logic of speech, even more than logic is the grammar of reason.” – Richard Chenevix Trench
This guide equips you with solid rules, real examples, and style tips to confidently use commas with “for example, ” boosting your writing clarity and polish. Keep these insights handy next time you craft sentences full of examples!
FAQS:
Can I always put a comma before “for example”?
No, not always. Use a comma before “for example” when it introduces an example or a list after an independent clause. If “for example” starts the sentence, place the comma after it instead.
Should I use commas both before and after “for example” in the middle of a sentence?
Yes. When “for example” appears mid-sentence as a parenthetical phrase, it should be enclosed by commas to separate it from the rest of the sentence.
Is it correct to start a sentence with “for example” without a comma after it?
No. When starting a sentence with “for example,” it should always be followed by a comma to set it off properly.
What’s the difference between “for example” and “e.g.” in terms of comma use?
“For example” is generally followed by a comma and can appear in different parts of a sentence with flexible punctuation. “E.g.” is a Latin abbreviation that usually appears inside parentheses and is always followed by a comma within those parentheses.
Can I omit commas with “for example” in informal writing?
In casual or conversational writing, you might omit some commas for flow, but in formal writing, it’s best to follow standard comma rules to avoid confusion.
