How to Use Capital and Capitol Correctly

"Capital" and "capitol" are homonyms, words that are pronounced the same and that are spelled nearly the same, but have different meanings. "Capital" and "capitol" can be especially tricky, since their meanings can be related but are not identical. When in doubt, follow the steps below to learn to use "capital" and "capitol" correctly.

Instructions

1. Know that "capital" and "capitol" are spelled differently.

2. Understand the different meanings of "capital" to be sure you are using it correctly. People tend to confuse "capital" with "capitol" primarily because one key definition of "capital" is the city where a seat of government is located. For example, Washington, DC is the national "capital" of the United States; Boston is the state "capital" of Massachusetts. On the other hand, capitol" usually refers to the physical building or group of buildings where a governmental body meets and works. There is a relationship between the two terms, you need to use the correct spelling in the correct context.

3. Capitalize on capitalization. When you see "Capitol" written with an upper case "C", you are talking about the famous building in Washington, DC where the United States Congress meets. This domed edifice is referred to in upper case letters as "The Capitol." When you see "capitol" written with a lower case "c," it means the main building or buildings where a state government resides.

4. Be familiar with exceptions to the rules. A few states capitalize their "capitols." Congress meets on "Capitol Hill" in Washington DC, but the Colorado legislature meets on "Capitol Hill" in Denver.

Tips & Warnings

• It can be helpful to know the other meanings of "capital" in order to use it correctly. When used as a noun, "capital" can also mean a letter written in upper case, business assets or a column header. If used as an adjective, capital can mean either "principal" or "punishable by death."