2. A few random ones,
just in case.
Lycra – Unless referring to the trademark fiber or fabric, use a
generic term such as spandex or elastic or stretch fabric.
Mafia – Secret criminal organization operating mainly in the U.S. and
Italy and engaged in illegal activities such and gambling and drug
dealing. Lowercase as a synonym for organized crime.
Pledge of Allegiance – let’s hope you know what this one is
Finland – A Nordic state, not part of Scandinavia
Pears – In general, capitalize most varieties, including Anjou, Asian
(also called apple pear), Bosc, and Bartlett.
3. Likely to run into, but
unlikely to remember
Photoshop – Trademark for a brand of photo-editing software.
Firefighter, fireman – The preferred term to describe a person who
fights fires is firefighter. One meaning of fireman is a person who
tends fires in a furnace. Fireman is also an acceptable synonym for
firefighter.
California – Abbreviate Calif. in datelines or stories. Postal code: CA
Slang – In general, avoid slang, the highly informal language that is
outside of conventional or standard usage.
Shut down (when used as a noun) shutdown (when used as a verb)