When do you capitalize professions?

Asked Oct 12 '16 at 17:56

Active Oct 12 '16 at 18:09

Viewed 527 times

For example:

Detective Jones

I think the D in Detective Jones should always be capitalized, because I believe that is the norm.

But what if, after introducing Detective Jones, I later refer to him as The Detective. For example:

Detective Jones asked me a few question, which I answered. After listening carefully and taking notes, the Detective then came back to me with some more questions.

I think you would capitalize the D, because "the Detective" is being used as a shorthand for "Detective Jones". But it looks a little odd, so I am not sure.

edited Oct 12 '16 at 18:09

BladorthinTheGrey

7,125

asked Oct 12 '16 at 17:56

big_smile

Possible duplicate of Understanding U.S. President capitalization. (Actually, Proper capitalization of titles is a better fit, but was closed as a duplicate.) – Edwin Ashworth Oct 12 '16 at 18:02
The standard principle is you capitalise when it's a proper noun, not when it's generic. Ignoring quirky usages like the Donald, that's not applicable when writing about what the* detective did*. – FumbleFingers Oct 12 '16 at 18:03
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Possible duplicate of Capitalization of job title. Yet another possibility is Should “Project Manager” be capitalized? – choster Oct 12 '16 at 18:09

When do you capitalize professions?

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