Capitalize
/ˈkæpɪtəlaɪz/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo write or print (a letter, word, etc.) in a capital letter.
/ˈkæpɪtəlaɪz/
To convert to uppercase letters.
Please capitalize the first letter of your name.
💡 Simply: To make a letter big.
More Examples
The software automatically capitalizes proper nouns.
How It's Used
"The program automatically capitalizes the first letter of each sentence."
To use or turn to one's advantage.
/ˈkæpɪtəlaɪz/
To take advantage of an opportunity to gain something.
He capitalized on his opponent's mistake.
💡 Simply: To benefit from something.
More Examples
Let's capitalize on this opportunity.
How It's Used
"The company is attempting to capitalize on the growing demand for sustainable products."
Idioms & expressions
Capitalize on
To take advantage of an opportunity to gain something.
"She capitalized on her experience to get a better job."
From Middle French capitaliser, from capital 'capital', ultimately from Latin capitalis 'of the head, chief'. The sense of 'to provide with capital' developed first, then the figurative use.
The usage of 'capitalize' in its financial sense predates its common usage in computing and general language.
Memory tip
Think 'CAP'ital letters.