1. matwoolf

    matwoolf Banned Contributor

    Joined:
    Mar 21, 2012
    Messages:
    6,631
    Likes Received:
    10,135
    Location:
    Yorkshire

    Vocative

    Discussion in 'Word Mechanics' started by matwoolf, May 18, 2015.

    Hi,

    Somebody asserted this point as a grammar truth, and I wanted some direction, please.

    If I replace a name in my draft with a 'darling/baby/honey...must it be capitalised? Always?

    Shucks...every draft, every submission ever...

    'I love you, Darling.'

    Eh? Really?

    Dumb.
     
  2. Wreybies

    Wreybies Thrice Retired Supporter Contributor

    Joined:
    May 1, 2008
    Messages:
    23,826
    Likes Received:
    20,815
    Location:
    El Tembloroso Caribe
    No, your somebody is in error. Just because it's a vocative doesn't mean it must be capitalized. Spanish has a rule that's somewhat similar to the erroneous one your friend is invoking, but English has no such.
     
    matwoolf likes this.
  3. matwoolf

    matwoolf Banned Contributor

    Joined:
    Mar 21, 2012
    Messages:
    6,631
    Likes Received:
    10,135
    Location:
    Yorkshire
    Thanks Wreybies, I'm wrestling on-line. He still has the better of me, though. Will spear him in a minute or two.
     
    BrianIff likes this.
  4. Mckk

    Mckk Member Supporter Contributor

    Joined:
    Dec 30, 2010
    Messages:
    6,541
    Likes Received:
    4,776
    I've heard of something similar, but for "Mum" and "Dad" - that those titles should be capitalised when it's vocative. So something like this:

    My sister and Dad never got along.

    So if the capitalisation doesn't apply for nicknames and endearments, does it necessarily apply for "Mum" and "Dad" and other familial titles?
     
    matwoolf likes this.
  5. matwoolf

    matwoolf Banned Contributor

    Joined:
    Mar 21, 2012
    Messages:
    6,631
    Likes Received:
    10,135
    Location:
    Yorkshire
    tonguetied and Mckk like this.

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Dismiss Notice