ChanteSez … Don’t forget your brand

Tuesday is my neighborhood trash pick-up day. I forgot to move my bin to the curb. … I almost forgot to post today’s ChanteSez Tip of the Day, too.

So, speaking of trash, did you know there’s a difference between “trash bin” and “Dumpster”? That difference is trademark.

Dumpster is capitalized since it is a trademarked brand. The rule is to use the trademarked brand only if it’s essential to your story, or if you’re aiming to add a detail that gives color to your piece. Otherwise, try to use a generic alternative.

Here are a few others:

  • AstroTurf
  • Velcro
  • Thermos (if you’re referring to the particular brand name)
  • Clorox
  • Jet Ski

ChanteSez … Are you hungry yet?

If so, feast your eyes on these food-related words — a primer on what’s capitalized and what’s not.

  • french fries — no caps … and no offense to our Francophile friends
  • french toast — no caps
  • Brussels sprouts — the “B” is capitalized, and like the city, takes an “s” on the end
  • barbecue — lower-case, but note that it’s spelled out and with a “c”

And of course, Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family and friends! May it be a fun, filling, safe and blessed holiday for you!