verb

capitalize

KA-puh-tuh-lyz

verb

To write a letter or word in uppercase.

"Remember to capitalize the first letter of every proper noun."

To take advantage of an opportunity for benefit or profit.

"The company capitalized on the trend and doubled its sales."

To provide money (capital) to fund a business or venture.

"Investors capitalized the new venture with two million dollars."

How to Use Capitalize

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo write in capital letters, or to make the most of an opportunity.

Common mistake

"Capitalize on" (take advantage of) is followed by "on"; don't drop it.

Common pairings

capitalize on an opportunity capitalize a word

capitalized past tense, capitalizes singular

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Can you complete this real example?

Remember to _____ the first letter of every proper noun.

From "capital" plus "-ize."

size maize prize Belize utilize capsize realize baptize idolize colonize memorize organize