Difference Between Capital & Capitol

Capital vs Capitol

Capital and capitol are two similar-sounding words with different meanings and usage. It is essential to understand the distinction between them to use them correctly. Capital is a more commonly used word with various meanings, while capitol has only one meaning and is thus easier to remember.

What does Capitol mean?

Capitol originates from Old French words capitolie and capitoile. It refers to a building or structure where the state legislature meets. In the United States, the word capitol refers to the building in Washington D.C., situated on Capitol Hill, where Congress meets. It is easy to remember this use of the word capitol as it contains an ‘O,’ similar to the dome’s shape atop the building.

What does Capital mean?

The word capital has its origins in Middle English and has several meanings. These include:

– An official city that serves as the seat of government, e.g., Washington D.C is the capital of the United States of America (US).
– A city which is the center of a specific activity, e.g., Paris is the fashion capital of the world.
– Wealth or property, e.g., he has a capital worth $5 million.
– A capital letter, e.g., names of people always start with a capital letter.
– Something expressing grave concern, e.g., he deserves capital punishment for his crime.
– The top part of a column or pillar.
– Other meanings such as excellent, first, and foremost.

In British English, capital is also used informally as an exclamation to express approval, satisfaction, or delight. For example, “That was a splendid performance, dear! Capital!”

The word capital is used in phrases such as “make capital out of” and “with a capital…” The adverb “capitally” is a derivative of the word capital.

What is the difference between Capital and Capitol?

Key differences between the words capital and capitol include:

– Capital and capitol are homonyms.
– They sound similar but have different meanings.
– Capitol has only one meaning, referring to the building where the state legislature meets.
– Capital has many meanings and can be used as a noun or adjective.
– The word capital is used in phrases such as “make capital out of” and “with a capital…”
– “Capitally” is an adverb made from the word capital.

Key Takeaways

• Capitol refers to a building or structure where the state legislature meets, such as the building in Washington D.C. where Congress convenes.
• Capital has multiple meanings, including a city that serves as the seat of government, wealth or property, and the top part of a column or pillar.
• Capital and capitol are homonyms with different meanings and usage; capitol has only one meaning, while capital has many meanings and can be used as a noun or adjective.