C1verbUK spelling: capitaliseformalbusinessmoney
US/ˈkæp.ɪ.təl.aɪz/
UK/ˈkæp.ɪ.təl.aɪz/
to use a situation or chance to get an advantage for yourself
More often (verb): to write a word with a capital first letter
In context
The airline capitalized on the strike by offering cheaper tickets.
Small shops should capitalize on the growing interest in local food.
We need to capitalize on the success of our first product.
Words that go with capitalize
verb + preposition
- capitalize onRivals quickly capitalized on our mistake.
- capitalize on the opportunityShe capitalized on the opportunity to expand abroad.
- capitalize on successThe band hoped to capitalize on its success.
- capitalize on a trendMany firms capitalize on the trend toward remote work.
- capitalize on demandRetailers capitalize on demand during the holiday season.
adverb + verb
- fully capitalizeThe company failed to fully capitalize on the new market.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
capitalize the opportunityCorrect: capitalize on the opportunity