Question from English4Today member Irene in Canada:

Does the word French need to be capitalized in the following sentence?

  • Please encourage french reading for pleasure as a family activity.

I feel that it should have a capital, however, other people are debating this.

Answer

Yes, Irene. In English we use capitals when referring to languages or language activities.

  • German poetry
  • French reading
  • Italian literature

Have a look at the Online English Grammar section on Capital Letters