Happy New Year or new year?

We’ve reached that time of year with one of the most confusing capitalization usages of all.

When we say “Happy new year,” should we capitalize “new year,” or lowercase it? See if you know.

What are the correct words to use in the blanks in the sentence below.

I’m sorry that I didn’t see you at the New Year’s Eve party last night, but I want to wish you happy ___________ today and a relaxing day off. May this ___________ bring you health and happiness!

1. new year, New Year

2. new year, new year

3. New Year, new year

4. New Year, New Year

The correct answer is the third option. If you’re referring to the holiday on Jan. 1, New Year’s Day, which can be abbreviated “New Year,” then “new year” should be capitalized, as a proper noun. For example, “If I don’t see you until after New Year’s Eve next week, happy New Year!”

But if you’re referring broadly to the year ahead, then “new year” should be lowercased. For instance, “I wonder what the new year bring will.”

So remember, if you mean the holiday, Jan. 1, then capitalize “new year”; but if you mean the year ahead in general, then just lowercase it.

And on that note, I hope you have a happy new year in 2024.