Capitalization Rules in Latvian for English Speakers

Understanding Capitalization in Latvian

Capitalization in Latvian follows specific rules that differ in some ways from English. For English speakers learning Latvian, understanding these rules is essential for proper writing and communication.

Capitalization of the First Word in a Sentence

Just like in English, the first word of every sentence in Latvian is capitalized. This is a universal rule that helps readers identify the beginning of a new thought or statement.

Capitalization of Proper Nouns

Proper nouns, such as names of people, places, and organizations, are capitalized in Latvian. This includes personal names, city names, countries, and company names.

Capitalization of Days, Months, and Nationalities

Unlike English, Latvian does not capitalize the names of days of the week, months, or nationalities. These words are written in lowercase unless they start a sentence.

Capitalization of Titles and Headings

In Latvian, only the first word and any proper nouns in titles and headings are capitalized. This contrasts with English title case, where most words are capitalized.

For example, a book title in Latvian might be written as "Ceļojums uz Rīgu" ("Journey to Riga"), capitalizing only the first word and the proper noun.

Capitalization of National Symbols and Holidays

Names of national holidays and symbols are capitalized in Latvian, as they are considered proper nouns.

Capitalization of Languages

Names of languages in Latvian are not capitalized unless they begin a sentence. For example, "latviešu valoda" means "Latvian language" and is written in lowercase.

Summary of Key Capitalization Rules in Latvian

• First word of a sentence is capitalized.
• Proper nouns (names of people, places, organizations) are capitalized.
• Days of the week, months, and nationalities are not capitalized unless at the start of a sentence.
• In titles, only the first word and proper nouns are capitalized.
• Names of national holidays and national symbols are capitalized.
• Names of languages are not capitalized unless they start a sentence.