Do You Capitalize "Veteran"? A Guide to Proper Capitalization
When it comes to writing about individuals who have served in the military, it’s essential to consider the proper capitalization of the term "veteran." But do you really need to capitalize it? What are the rules and exceptions? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of capitalization and provide you with a clear guide on when to use uppercase and lowercase letters.
What is a Veteran?
Before we get into the capitalization conundrum, let’s define what a veteran is. A veteran is someone who has served in the military, either in war or peacetime. This includes individuals who have served in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, or any other branch of the military. There are millions of veterans across the world, and we should show respect and recognition for their service.
Capitalization Rules
Capitalization rules can be a bit tricky, but AP Stylebook, Chicago Manual of Style, and MLA Style Manual all agree that the term "veteran" should be lowercased unless it’s a title or a proper noun. Here are some points to consider:
- Lowercase "veteran" when referring to someone who has served in the military.
- Uppercase "veteran" when it appears as a title, such as "Veteran Services" or "Veterans Affairs."
- Capitalize "veteran" when it’s part of a proper noun, like "Veterans Day" or "Veterans Museum."
Exceptions and Irregularities
While there are general rules, there are also exceptions and irregularities to consider:
- Compound words: Capitalize "veterans" when it’s part of a compound word like "veterans affairs" or "veterans benefits."
- Acronyms: Typically, acronyms that start with "VET" or "V-E-T" are capitalized (e.g., VETERANS DAY).
- Proper nouns: Veterans can become a proper noun when part of a specific organization (e.g., Veterans Association) or a unique location (e.g., the Veterans Memorial).
Example Sentences
Here are some example sentences to demonstrate the proper capitalization:
- "The veteran in the wheelchair was honored at the ceremony." (Lowercase "veteran" since it’s a description)
- "The city’s Veteran Services department assisted the veteran with his disability claim." (Uppercase "Veteran" since it’s part of a title)
- "Veterans Day falls on November 11 every year." (Capitalization of "Veterans Day" as a proper noun)
Table: When to Capitalize "Veteran"
| Scenarios | Capitalization Rule |
|---|---|
| Referring to someone who has served | Lowercase |
| In a title (e.g., Veteran Services) | Uppercase |
| Part of a compound word (e.g., veterans affairs) | Uppercase |
| An acronym (e.g., VETERANS DAY) | Uppercase |
| Part of a proper noun (e.g., Veterans Association) | Uppercase |
| A unique location or event (e.g., the Veterans Memorial) | Uppercase |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the capitalization of the term "veteran" can be a nuanced topic. While there are general rules, there are also exceptions and irregularities to consider. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you’ll be able to properly capitalize this important term and show respect for those who have served in the military.
Remember:
- Lowercase "veteran" in most cases
- Uppercase "Veteran" in titles and proper nouns
- Be aware of compound words, acronyms, and exceptions
By being mindful of these rules, you can ensure that your writing is grammatically correct and respectful towards our nation’s heroes.
Additional Resources
For further guidance on capitalization rules, check out the resources below:
- AP Stylebook: www.apstylebook.com
- Chicago Manual of Style: www.chicagomanualofstyle.org
- MLA Style Manual: www.mlanet.org/publications/MLA-Style-Mannual
