When it comes to capitalization in writing, it can be tricky to know which words should be capitalized and which ones should not. One common question that writers often ask is whether the word “agreement” should be capitalized. The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think.
In general, the word “agreement” should not be capitalized. However, there are certain circumstances in which it may be appropriate to capitalize this word.
When to Capitalize “Agreement”
1. Proper Nouns: If “agreement” is part of a proper noun or the title of a formal document, it should be capitalized. For example:
– The Paris Agreement on Climate Change
– The Treaty of Versailles included an agreement on reparations.
2. At the Beginning of a Sentence: As with any word, “agreement” should be capitalized when it appears at the beginning of a sentence. For example:
– “Agreement was reached on the terms of the contract.”
3. In Headlines: Capitalization rules for headlines differ slightly from those of standard text. Headlines typically capitalize the first letter of every word, including “agreement.” For example:
– “New Agreement Signed Between Two Countries.”
When Not to Capitalize “Agreement”
In most cases, “agreement” should not be capitalized. For example:
– “We reached an agreement on the terms of the contract.”
– “The union and management were able to negotiate an agreement.”
It is important to note that capitalization rules can vary depending on the style guide being used. Some style guides, such as the Associated Press (AP) Stylebook, do not capitalize “agreement” in any circumstance unless it is part of a proper noun. Therefore, it is always best to consult the appropriate style guide for specific capitalization rules.
In conclusion, the word “agreement” is typically not capitalized unless it is used as part of a proper noun or at the beginning of a sentence. However, it is always a good idea to check your style guide or consult with a copy editor to ensure your writing follows proper capitalization rules.