Should the word holiday be capitalized? This question often arises in writing and publishing, and it can be quite controversial. The capitalization of the word “holiday” depends on various factors, including style guides, context, and personal preferences. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind both capitalizing and not capitalizing the word “holiday” and help you make an informed decision for your writing needs.
The first thing to consider is the capitalization of “holiday” in the context of a title or proper noun. If “holiday” is used as a title for a specific event or celebration, such as “Christmas Holiday” or “New Year’s Holiday,” it should be capitalized. This is because the word “holiday” is now serving as a proper noun, referring to a specific day or period. In these cases, capitalizing “holiday” emphasizes the importance of the event and distinguishes it from general usage.
On the other hand, when “holiday” is used in a general sense, such as “I’m planning a holiday trip,” it should not be capitalized. In this context, “holiday” is a common noun, referring to any day or period set aside for rest, celebration, or recreation. Capitalizing “holiday” in this instance would be incorrect and could confuse readers.
Another factor to consider is the use of “holiday” in a list or series of events. For example, “Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Independence Day are all holidays.” In this case, “holiday” is capitalized only because it is the first word in the list. Once the list begins, each subsequent “holiday” should be lowercase unless it is the first word in a new sentence or phrase.
Some style guides, such as the Associated Press (AP) and the Modern Language Association (MLA), have specific rules regarding the capitalization of “holiday.” The AP style suggests capitalizing “holiday” only when it is part of a title or when it is used as a proper noun. The MLA style is similar, recommending lowercase usage in general context.
Ultimately, the decision to capitalize “holiday” depends on the context in which it is used. In most cases, it is best to use lowercase unless the word is serving as a proper noun or the first word in a list. By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your writing is clear, consistent, and in line with the appropriate style guide.
