Public Services and Procurement Canada
Symbol of the Government of Canada

Institutional Links

 

Important notice

Writing Tips has been archived and won’t be updated before it is permanently deleted.

For the most up-to-date content, please consult Writing Tips Plus, which combines content from Writing Tips and The Canadian Style. And don’t forget to update your bookmarks!

Search Canada.ca
To begin your search, go to the alphabetical index below and click on the first letter of the word you are searching for.

capitalization: family relationships

Capitalize terms for family relationships only when the name of a person follows, when they are unmodified, or when they are used in direct address:

  • You inherited your keen eyes from Grandfather Smith.
  • Did you invite Aunt Sarah?
  • We met Mother at the theatre.
  • Write to me, Son, and tell me how you are.

but

  • John’s grandfather served in the army.
  • Our aunt, Sarah Vick, is an engineer.
  • Your mother called while you were out.
  • Janet and Gordon’s son is visiting them.