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3. Capitalization Rules
(See also Chapter 4 "Capitalization Examples" and Chapter 9 "Abbreviations and Letter Symbols")
(See also Chapter 4 "Capitalization Examples" and Chapter 9 "Abbreviations and Letter Symbols")
3.1.
It is impossible to give rules that will cover every conceivable problem in capitalization; but by considering the purpose to be served and the underlying principles, it is possible to attain a considerable degree of uniformity. The list of approved forms given in Chapter 4 will serve as a guide. Obviously such a list cannot be complete. The correct usage with respect to any term not included can be determined by analogy or by application of the rules.
Proper names
3.2.
Proper names are capitalized.
- Rome
- Brussels
- John Macadam
- Macadam family
- Italy
- Anglo-Saxon
Derivatives of proper names
3.3.
Derivatives of proper names used with a proper meaning are capitalized.
- Roman (of Rome)
- Johannean
- Italian
3.4.
Derivatives of proper names used with acquired independent common meaning, or no longer identified with such names, are set lowercased. Since this depends upon general and long-continued usage, a more definite and all-inclusive rule cannot be formulated in advance.
- roman (type)
- brussels sprouts
- venetian blinds
- macadam (crushed rock)
- watt (electric unit)
- plaster of pairs
- italicize
- anglicize
- pasteurize
Common nouns and adjectives in proper names
3.5.
A common noun or adjective forming an essential part of a proper name is capitalized; the common noun used alone as a substitute for the name of a place or thing is not capitalized.
- Massachusetts Avenue; the avenue
- Washington Monument; the monument
- Statue of Liberty; the statue
- Hoover Dam; the dam
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