The primary distinction between "capital" and
"capitol" is that "capital" refers to a legislative
building or location, whereas "capitol" refers to a legislative
building or location. Learn more about the differences between
"capitol" and "capital" and the origins of these words.
'Capital' vs. 'Capitol': Which Should You Use?
The words "capital" and "capitol" are
homophones, which means they sound the same. They are also almost identically
spelled. While the term "capital" has many meanings, it only refers
to a capitol building or buildings that house a legislature.
Capital refers to money, uppercase letters, the death
penalty, and capital cities that house the seat of government.
The term "capitol" always refers to a physical
capitol building (such as the United States Capitol Building) or the
surrounding area (such as Capitol Hill).
To distinguish between these frequently confused words,
consider whether you are referring to a specific building or the surrounding
area. In that case, use the word "capitol." Use the word
"capital" in all other cases.
The Meaning of the Words 'Capital' and 'Capitol'
"Capital" and "capitol" are both derived
from the Latin word "caput," which means "head." The term
"capitol" derives from the Roman "Capitlium," a temple
dedicated to the god Jupiter on Rome's Capitoline Hill.
What Does the Term "Capitol" Mean?
The term "capitol" always refers to a structure
that houses the legislative branch of government. Use the word
"capital" to refer to anything other than a building or the immediate
surrounding area. For example, "the United States Congress meets in the
United States Capitol building in the nation's capital of Washington, DC."
How to Use the Word 'Capitol' in a Sentence
The following sentences use the word "capitol"
correctly.
- The newspaper dispatched a reporter to the state capitol in
Albany.
- Because the Capitol is under construction, our state
government meets in a temporary location.
- She lives on Capitol Hill and can easily walk to work.
What Does the Term "Capital" Mean?
In the English language, the word "capital" has
several different meanings.
A location: A city or region typically serves as the capital
of a state or country and houses the seat of government.
A capital offense is one that is punishable by death,
whereas capital punishment is the death penalty itself.
An uppercase letter: Capital letters are uppercase letters.
Money: Capital can refer to money or other valuable items,
such as venture capital.
Something fantastic: A capital idea, for example, is a
fantastic one.
How to Use the Word 'Capital' in a Sentence
The following sentences use the word "capital"
correctly.
- The capital of the United States is Washington, DC.
- Make sure that the first letter of a proper noun is
capitalized.
- We will raise funds through a targeted fundraising round.
- The death penalty has been abolished by the state
legislature.
