When pronouncing the word “example” aloud, you might use a “g” sound in place of the “x.” Many people do. This can help you remember the abbreviation’s meaning.
I always thought it stood for "example given" which is easy to remember. In that vein i.e. could be "in essence" which fits the meaning and is also easy to remember.
48 posted on 12/05/2018 2:11:15 PM PST by Hugin
("Not one step rom his weapons should a traveler take"...Havamal 38)