As an expert in linguistics and language usage, I can provide a comprehensive answer to your question about the capitalization of the word "mom" in dialogue. The rules for capitalization in English can sometimes be complex, but they are essential for conveying the correct meaning and showing respect in written communication. When it comes to the term "mom," the capitalization depends on the context in which it is used.

Firstly, let's consider the use of "mom" as a proper noun. In English, proper nouns are capitalized because they refer to specific individuals, places, or things. When you are referring to your own mother, you would capitalize "Mom" to show that you are talking about a specific person known to you. For example, in a dialogue, you might write:

> "Hi, Mom. How was your day?"

In this case, "Mom" is capitalized because it is a direct address to a specific person, the speaker's mother.

However, if you are not directly addressing your mother but rather speaking about her in the third person, you would not capitalize "mom." For instance:

> **"She is going to meet her mom for lunch."**

Here, "mom" is not capitalized because it is a general reference to a mother, not a direct address or a proper noun.

It's important to note that capitalization rules can also be influenced by the style guide you are following. Different publications and organizations may have their own guidelines for capitalization. For instance, some style guides may prefer capitalizing "mom" in all instances where it refers to one's own mother, while others may only require it in direct address.

Now, let's address the second part of your question regarding the capitalization of general nouns. In English, general nouns, which are words that refer to a category or class of things, are not capitalized unless they are used at the beginning of a sentence or in a title. For example, "state," "city," "bird," and "parent" would not be capitalized in the middle of a sentence unless they are part of a title or a proper noun. Here are a few examples:

- **"The eagle is a bird known for its strength and agility."**
- **"New York is a city that never sleeps."**
- **"Parents often worry about their children's future."**

In these sentences, "bird," "city," and "parents" are not capitalized because they are general nouns, not proper nouns.

To summarize, the capitalization of "mom" in dialogue depends on whether it is used as a direct address to a specific person (proper noun) or as a general reference (common noun). Proper nouns are capitalized, while common nouns are not, unless they are at the beginning of a sentence or part of a title. It's always a good practice to be aware of the context and the style guide you are adhering to ensure clear and respectful communication.

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If you are talking about your mother, the name is not capitalized. But if you are talking --to-- your mother or father, the name is capitalized. So in writing dialogue, your subject might say, --Hi, Mom. ... If the noun is general such as state, city, bird, parent, etc. then the noun is not capitalized.Mar 29, 2018read more >>