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capitalize

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈkæpɪˌtaɪz/

KK: /ˈkæpɪˌtaɪz/

transitive verb
Definition

To write a word with a capital letter at the beginning, or to convert something into capital or assets.


Example

Please capitalize the first letter of each sentence in your essay.


Tense Forms

Past: capitalized

Past Participle: capitalized


Conversation
Sloth A
Hey, do you remember how to capitalize words in that document we worked on?
Sloth B
Yeah, you just need to highlight the text and hit the shift key.
Sloth A
Got it! I always forget that part when I’m typing quickly.
Sloth B
No worries! Just think of it like a quick way to make things look neat.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
fund
invest
capitalize
Antonyms
deplete
diminish
reduce
Root Explanation

Capitalize → It is formed from "capitalis" (from Latin, meaning of the head or chief) and the suffix "-ize" (meaning to make or to cause to become). The word "capitalize" means to make something into a chief or primary form, often referring to writing in uppercase letters or taking advantage of something.

Memory Tip

Think of making something 'chief' or 'primary' ('capitalis') — that's why to capitalize means to make it important or to write in uppercase.

Visually Confused Words
recapitalize
decapitalize
chaptalize
uncapitalized
overcapitalize
undercapitalize
catabolize
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