Specialized

Definition

Specialized refers to having or showing particular skill or knowledge in a specific field or domain.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪzd/
• Respelling: SPESH-uh-lyzd (with "SPESH" as in "special," "uh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," and "lyzd" rhyming with "prized")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛʃəlaɪzd/
• Respelling: SPESH-uh-lyzd (similar to American English, with "SPESH" as in "special," "uh" like the 'a' in "sofa," and "lyzd" as in "prized")

In both dialects, "specialized" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SPESH." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, accurately reflecting the word's phonetic structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The word "specialized" is derived from the verb "specialize", which in turn comes from the French word "spécialiser," dating back to the early 17th century. It is formed by appending the "-ed" suffix to "specialize", indicating a past tense or completed action.

Derivatives

• Specialize
• Specialist
• Specialization
• Specially
• Special

Synonyms

• Skilled
• Expert
• Focused

Antonyms

• Generalized
• Unskilled
• Broad

Usage

The term specialized is often utilized to describe a person’s expertise or a particular function or feature of an object that is designed for a narrow purpose.

• Example: "He is a specialized surgeon with expertise in cardiothoracic surgery."

Related Terms

• Specialization
• Expertise
• Niche

Detailed Definition

Adjective

• Expertise in a Particular Field: Having or showing a high level of skill or knowledge in a particular field or domain.
• Example: "The specialized lawyer handled complex intellectual property cases."

• Designed for a Particular Purpose: Having unique features or adaptations that allow for a particular function or usage.
• Example: "The scientists used specialized equipment to conduct the experiment."

• Highly Specific: Relating to or characteristic of a particular field, domain, or function.
• Example: "The specialized terminology was difficult for outsiders to understand."