Do you capitalize cc on a business letter? This is a common question that many professionals have when drafting formal correspondence. The correct usage of capitalization in the “cc” field is important for maintaining professionalism and ensuring that your message is received appropriately.
The “cc” stands for “carbon copy,” which originated from the days when copies of documents were made using carbon paper. Today, the term is used in the context of email and other digital communication to indicate recipients who will receive a copy of the message but are not required to respond. In a business letter, the “cc” field is typically found at the bottom of the letter, after the signature.
When it comes to capitalizing “cc,” there are a few rules to follow. According to the Modern Language Association (MLA) and the Chicago Manual of Style (CMS), “cc” should be written in lowercase letters. This applies to both the word “cc” and any additional text in the “cc” field, such as names or email addresses.
The rationale behind this rule is that “cc” is considered a noun or a term that is part of the phrase “carbon copy.” As such, it should be treated as a standard noun and not capitalized. This rule is consistent with the treatment of other common phrases in business writing, such as “vs.” and “etc.”
However, it’s important to note that there may be some exceptions to this rule, depending on the specific style guide or company policy. For instance, some organizations may require the use of uppercase letters for “cc” to maintain consistency with other capitalized headings or fields in the letter. In such cases, it’s best to follow the guidelines provided by your organization.
In conclusion, when drafting a business letter, it is generally recommended to use lowercase letters for “cc” and any additional text in the “cc” field. This ensures that your letter maintains a professional tone and adheres to widely accepted conventions in business communication. Always consult your organization’s style guide or seek guidance from a supervisor if you are unsure about the proper formatting for your correspondence.
