General Principles of Capitalization in Portuguese
Portuguese, like many other languages, uses capitalization primarily to distinguish proper nouns, the first word of sentences, and certain important terms. However, the application of these rules can sometimes be tricky for learners, especially when compared to English.
1. Capitalizing the First Word of a Sentence
As in English, always capitalize the first word of a sentence in Portuguese. This rule applies regardless of the sentence structure or content.
Example: Hoje está um dia lindo.
2. Proper Nouns and Names
Proper nouns, including names of people, places, organizations, and specific events, are always capitalized in Portuguese.
- Pessoas: Maria, João, Pedro
- Lugares: Brasil, Lisboa, Rio de Janeiro
- Instituições: Universidade de Coimbra, Banco Central
3. Titles and Honorifics
Titles and honorifics are capitalized when used as part of a name, but not when used generically.
- o Presidente Lula (but o presidente do clube)
- Dom Pedro II (but um dom in a general sense)
4. Days of the Week, Months, and Seasons
This is one of the most significant differences from English. In Portuguese, the days of the week, months, and seasons are not capitalized unless they start a sentence.
- segunda-feira, terça-feira, janeiro, fevereiro, verão, inverno
5. Nationalities, Languages, Religions, and Demonyms
Unlike English, Portuguese does not capitalize adjectives of nationality, names of languages, or religious denominations unless they are part of a proper noun.
- português, inglês, brasileiro, católico
- But: Igreja Católica (when referring to the institution)
6. Titles of Books, Movies, and Works of Art
In Portuguese, only the first word and any proper nouns in the title are capitalized, not every significant word as in English titles.
- O senhor dos anéis (The Lord of the Rings)
- Dom Casmurro
7. Geographical Names and Features
Capitalize the names of countries, cities, rivers, mountains, and other geographical features. However, generic words like rio (river) or monte (mountain) are only capitalized if part of the official name.
- Rio Amazonas, Monte Everest, Oceano Atlântico
8. Acronyms and Initialisms
Acronyms and initialisms are written in uppercase letters, just as in English.
- ONU (United Nations)
- UE (European Union)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many Portuguese learners, especially those with an English background, tend to overcapitalize words. Remember to keep adjectives of nationality, names of languages, and the days of the week in lowercase unless they appear at the beginning of a sentence. Also, be mindful not to capitalize every word in titles or headings.
Capitalization in Emails and Letters
When starting a formal email or letter, capitalize only the first word of the greeting, unlike the practice in English where every significant word may be capitalized.
- Caro senhor Silva,
- Prezada professora,
Practice Makes Perfect
The best way to master Portuguese capitalization is through consistent reading and writing. Language learning tools like Talkpal offer interactive exercises and feedback that help you internalize these rules. Whenever you write in Portuguese, pay attention to these capitalization guidelines to develop a more native-like writing style.
Conclusion
Capitalization in Portuguese is governed by clear but sometimes contrasting rules compared to English. By understanding and practicing these guidelines, you will improve your Portuguese writing skills and communicate more effectively. Keep practicing, stay attentive to details, and use platforms like Talkpal for continual improvement in your journey to mastering Portuguese.
