Comma Before Or After “For Example”?

This question confuses many writers, but understanding where to place the comma depends on the sentence. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced writer, this tiny punctuation mark can change your sentence’s clarity and rhythm. When “for example” begins a sentence or an introductory clause, add a comma after it: For example, proper punctuation improves understanding. When used mid-sentence, place commas before and after “for example”: Grammar, for example, matters more than most think.

These punctuation choices may look minor when typing, but they define your writing tone and fluency. The comma helps clarify thoughts, control pacing, and guide the reader, especially with tricky grammar structures like dependent or independent clauses. The right use of commas improves your writing’s polish and professionalism.

Why “For Example” Confuses So Many Writers

There’s a reason people pause every time they use “for example.” It behaves like a transition, an interjection, and a list introducer- all rolled into one.

And because it appears in different parts of a sentence, the comma rules change depending on how you use it.

Here’s the truth:

“For example” is a flexible phrase, but the comma around it depends on its position and function in the sentence.

Let’s break it down in simple, beginner-friendly terms.

What Does “For Example” Actually Mean in Writing?

“For example” introduces one or more specific illustrations of a general idea.

It’s saying:

“Let me show you something to make this clearer.”

Some common synonyms include:

• Such as
• Like
• To illustrate
• As an illustration
• For instance

Example:

• There are many citrus fruits- for example, oranges, lemons, and limes.

Comma Before “For Example”? Here’s the General Rule

Use a comma before “for example” when it functions as a parenthetical phrase or follows a complete clause.

In other words, if you could remove “for example” and the sentence still makes sense, you usually need a comma before it.

Correct:

• You should eat more leafy greens, for example, spinach and kale.

Incorrect:

• You should eat more leafy greens, for example, spinach and kale.

Why? Because “for example” here is interrupting the sentence- it’s an interjection, and commas help mark that break.

When to Use a Comma Before “For Example”

Let’s look at the situations where a comma before “for example” is not only correct- it’s essential.

1. Parenthetical Usage

• Parenthetical means the phrase can be removed without changing the basic meaning.

Example:

• Some pets, for example, cats and rabbits, require less space than dogs.

You can remove “for example,” and the sentence still flows:

• Some pets- cats and rabbits- require less space than dogs.

2. After Independent Clauses

If “for example” comes after a complete thought, insert a comma.

Example:

• I love outdoor activities, for example, hiking and kayaking.

When You Don’t Need a Comma Before “For Example”

Here’s where people often get tripped up.

If “for example” follows a preposition or is part of a phrase that doesn’t need a break, skip the comma.

Don’t Use a Comma:

• Certain ingredients, for example, sugar, are high in calories. ← awkward

Better:

• Certain ingredients, for example, sugar, are high in calories.

But here’s a trick:

If you can move “for example” to the start of the sentence and it still makes sense, you probably need commas around it.

Comma After “For Example”? Yes, Almost Always

A comma after “for example” is standard in most sentences, especially when it appears at the beginning or middle.

Why?

It acts as a transition phrase, and those typically get commas to help with clarity and rhythm.

Examples:

• For example, let’s say you skipped breakfast.
• You can try low-carb options, for example, eggs and avocado.

The comma helps the reader pause and digest what’s coming next.

How to Punctuate “For Example” in the Middle of a Sentence

When “for example” is in the middle, treat it like a parenthetical– put commas before and after.

Example:

• Some students, for example, those in advanced classes, get more homework.

Think of it like adding side notes or whispered information. Commas help set it off so the reader doesn’t stumble.

Starting Sentences with “For Example”

You can start a sentence with “for example”- just follow it with a comma.

Examples:

• For example, many birds migrate south during winter.
• For example, you could try studying in shorter bursts instead of cramming.

Avoid writing:

• For example, you could try studying in shorter bursts… ← missing comma

The “For Example” vs “e.g.” Debate

Here’s where we separate grammar geeks from the rest of us.

“For example” is English.

“e.g.” is Latin- exempli gratia.

Use “for example” when:

• Writing informally
• Speaking directly to readers
• You want clarity

Use “e.g.” when:

• Writing formally (APA, MLA)
• Parenthetical info: (e.g., apples, bananas, grapes)
• You’re tight on space (technical docs, charts)

Important: Always use a comma after “e.g.” in American English.

Common Mistakes to Avoid With “For Example” and Commas

Let’s clear up a few rookie grammar errors:

Mistake 1: No Commas At All

• I like winter sports, for example, skiing and snowboarding.

Fix: I like winter sports, for example, skiing and snowboarding.

Mistake 2: Only One Comma in the Middle

• My pets, for example, fish and turtles, are easy to care for.

Fix: My pets, for example, fish and turtles, are easy to care for.

Mistake 3: Using Both “e.g.” and “For example” Interchangeably

Stick to one style for consistency.

How Punctuation Works with Lists and Clauses

“For example” often introduces a list or clause, and punctuation depends on what follows.

With Lists:

• He enjoys tropical fruits, for example, mangoes and pineapples.

With Clauses:

• For example, she never misses a workout, even on weekends.

Parentheses, Dashes, or Commas: Which One Wins?

Different punctuation marks signal different tones and emphasis.

Punctuation	Usage with “For Example”	Tone
Commas	Most common, neutral	Neutral, formal, or informal
Parentheses	Extra, less emphasis	Technical or scholarly
Em dashes (- )	Stronger pause or interruption	Dramatic, conversational

Example with Each:

• Commas: He eats veggies, for example, carrots.
• Parentheses: He eats veggies (for example, carrots).
• Dashes: He eats veggies- for example, carrots and spinach.

Style vs Rules: When Grammar Can Flex

Grammar is a guide, not a jail sentence.

In creative writing, storytelling, or dialogue, you can sometimes bend the comma rules if the meaning is clear.

Still, for clarity and professionalism, it’s safest to stick to the standard.

Advanced Usage: Complex Sentences and “For Example”

In longer sentences, especially with multiple clauses, place “for example” carefully to avoid confusion.

Good:

• You should improve your diet by eating more fiber, for example, and exercise regularly.

Bad:

• You should improve your diet, for example, fiber, and exercise regularly.

That second one? Confusing and grammatically off.

Read-Aloud Trick: An Editor’s Secret Weapon

Not sure where the comma should go?

Read the sentence out loud. Wherever you naturally pause, insert a comma.

If your voice drops or takes a break before “for example,” it probably needs a comma there.

It’s not a foolproof rule, but it works surprisingly well.

Formal Writing: Grammar Rules in Academic and Legal Texts

In academic, legal, or technical writing, comma placement must follow stricter standards.

APA Style:

• Use “e.g.” in parentheses with a comma after: (e.g., apples, oranges)

Chicago Manual of Style:

• Prefers clarity- so commas before and after “for example” are standard.

Legal Writing:

• Avoids ambiguity, so examples are usually introduced with:
  • such as
  • including but not limited to

Pro tip: Always follow the style guide of your industry or institution.

Audience Matters: Tone, Style, and Flexibility

The punctuation you use should also fit your audience.

Audience	Tone	Use Commas?	Tips
Casual blog reader	Conversational	Yes	Prioritize flow and rhythm
Academic professor	Formal	Yes	Follow style guides strictly
Social media users	Informal	Sometimes	Less strict, but clarity still matters
ESL students	Educational	Yes	Keep sentences clear and consistent

Quick Reference Table: Comma Rules for “For Example”

Position	Comma Before	Comma After	Example
Beginning of sentence	❌	✅	For example, you can eat oatmeal.
Middle of sentence	✅	✅	You can eat grains, for example, rice and oats.
End of sentence	✅	❌	Try complex carbs, for example.
Inside parentheses	❌	✅	(e.g., nuts, seeds, fruits)

Related Grammar You Should Know

Here are some related topics you may also want to master:

• “All Is” vs “All Are” – Learn collective noun grammar Guide Here
• “Large scale” or “Large-scale” – Hyphenation matters
• “I’m gonna” vs “I gonna” – One is grammatically correct, the other isn’t
• “Thanks for asking.” – Is it polite or sarcastic? (Hint: it’s polite!)
• Anagrams – A fun grammar break that sharpens your brain

You’ve Mastered the Comma Before and After “For Example”

You now know when to use a comma before “for example”, when to add one after, and how to navigate tricky sentence structures.

Final Cheat Sheet:

• Before “for example”: Use it if it follows a complete clause or interrupts the flow.
• After “for example”: Almost always, especially at the beginning or middle.
• Avoid comma misuse: Don’t leave out necessary commas or use them inconsistently.

Remember: Grammar isn’t about being perfect- it’s about being clear.

So next time you write a sentence and pause before typing “for example,” you’ll know exactly where to put that comma.

Final Thoughts

Mastering punctuation around phrases like “for example” isn’t just about pleasing grammar nerds- it’s about improving how clearly and confidently you communicate. Whether you’re writing an academic essay, a blog post, or a casual email, using commas correctly keeps your message clear and easy to understand.

Here’s the bottom line:

• Use a comma before “for example” if it comes after a complete sentence or acts as an interruption.
• Use a comma after “for example” in almost every case, especially when it introduces examples.
• When in doubt? Read it aloud– your ears will often tell you what your eyes miss.

Getting this right shows attention to detail, strengthens your writing, and boosts your credibility, especially in academic, professional, and public-facing contexts.

Punctuation might seem small, but it plays a big role in how you’re understood.

FAQs

Do I always need a comma after “for example”?

Yes- almost always. When “for example” starts or interrupts a sentence, a comma after it helps separate the phrase from the rest of the sentence.
Example: For example, you could try meditation to reduce stress.

Can I start a sentence with “for example”?

Absolutely. It’s perfectly fine to begin a sentence with “for example,” just be sure to follow it with a comma.
Correct: For example, many people skip breakfast without realizing its effects.

Should I use both a comma before and after “for example”?

Yes, if “for example” appears in the middle of a sentence and is used as a parenthetical phrase, then commas should be placed both before and after it.
Example: Many plants, for example, aloe vera and basil, have medicinal properties.

What’s the difference between “for example” and “e.g.”?

“For example” is written in plain English and is often used in formal and informal writing.
“E.g.” is Latin for exempli gratia and is typically used in parentheses or technical writing.
Example:

• For example, you could choose citrus fruits, lemons, and oranges.
• e.g., You could choose citrus fruits (e.g., lemons, oranges).

Are commas around “for example” required in British English, too?

Yes, but style guides vary. British English tends to be slightly more flexible with punctuation. However, for clarity, especially in formal writing, commas are still commonly used before and after “for example,” just like in American English.