Specialize

Definition

Specialize means to concentrate on and become expert in a particular subject, activity, or branch of work; or to tailor something for a specific purpose or function. It can be used both transitively and intransitively.

Parts of Speech

• Verb (transitive/intransitive)

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA: /ˈspɛʃ.ə.laɪz/
• Respelling: SPEH-shuh-lyz

British English

• IPA: /ˈspɛʃ.ə.laɪz/
• Respelling: SPEH-shuh-lyz

Etymology

Late 17th century: from French spécialiser, from spécial ‘particular, specific,’ itself from Latin specialis ‘particular’ + English verb-forming suffix -ize.

Derivatives

• specialization (noun)
• specialist (noun)
• specialized (adjective, verb past)
• specializing (verb gerund)
• specializable (adjective)

Synonyms

• focus
• concentrate
• major (in)
• narrow (down)
• tailor

Antonyms

• generalize
• diversify
• broaden
• vary

Usage

"After earning her medical degree, she chose to specialize in pediatric oncology."

"The firm specializes in renewable energy consulting."

Related Terms

• Niche: A specialized segment of the market or field.
• Expertise: Specialized knowledge or skill.
• Concentration: The act of focusing on a single subject.
• Professional: One who practices a specialty.
• Customize: To modify something to suit a particular individual or task.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To pursue a particular area of study or work and develop expertise – to dedicate one’s efforts to a specific domain in order to become highly skilled or knowledgeable.
  • Example: "He decided to specialize in medieval literature during his doctoral studies."
• To focus one’s efforts on a specific function or activity – to concentrate resources or attention on a particular task or service.
  • Example: "The bakery specializes in gluten-free pastries."
• To tailor or design something for a particular purpose – to customize an object, process, or service so that it best serves a defined need.
  • Example: "This software is specialized to specialize in high-frequency trading algorithms."