Should the word southwest be capitalized?

The word "southwest" is capitalized when it refers to a specific region or direction, but not when it refers to a general direction. Here's how to tell:

Capitalize "Southwest" when:

* It refers to a specific region: For example, "The Southwest is known for its deserts."

* It's part of a proper noun: For example, "Southwest Airlines" or "The Southwest United States."

Don't capitalize "southwest" when:

* It's a general direction: For example, "The sun sets in the southwest."

* It's used as an adjective: For example, "We took a southwest-facing apartment."

Examples:

* Capitalized: "The Southwest is a popular tourist destination."

* Not capitalized: "The wind was blowing from the southwest."

* Capitalized: "She lives in the Southwest United States."

* Not capitalized: "We took a southwest-facing room."