Word
capitalize
Phoneticscap·i·tal·ize, stress on the first syllable
/ˈkæpətəˌɫaɪz/
UK spelling · capitalise
Grammar
Definition
v. to write a letter in its large form, especially at the start of a sentence or for a name. You use this to make words stand out.
v. to write or print a letter in its uppercase form. Typically used in the passive voice when referring to specific words or names.
Examples
“Please capitalize the first letter of your name.”
“The style guide requires you to capitalize all proper nouns in the title.”
“In legal documents, certain terms are capitalized to indicate they carry a specific, previously defined meaning within the contract.”
Examples
simple
“Please capitalize the first letter of your name.”
contextual
“The style guide requires you to capitalize all proper nouns in the title.”
complex
“In legal documents, certain terms are capitalized to indicate they carry a specific, previously defined meaning within the contract.”
Usage
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object.
Real-World Examples
“Retail analyst Catherine Shuttleworth thinks Argos could capitalise on this, along with its reputation as a trusted British brand.” “The problem has been capitalising on the talent of Mbappe and Vinicius Junior.” Etymology
From capital + -ize, the first element ultimately from Latin capitālis (“of the head”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
VERB
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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englishreference.com/q/capitalize