specialize
Specialize (verb) means to focus one's study, work, or business on a particular area rather than a broad range. Example: “She decided to specialize in pediatric medicine.”
How to use specialize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo narrow your focus down to one particular skill, subject, or product.
British English also spells this "specialise."
Word forms
specialized past tense, specializes singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
She decided to _____ in pediatric medicine.
Etymology
From "special" plus the verb-forming suffix -ize.
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for specialize
See all rhymes for specialize →Frequently asked questions
What does “specialize” mean?
The word “specialize” means to focus one's study, work, or business on a particular area rather than a broad range. In plain terms, to narrow your focus down to one particular skill, subject, or product.
How do you pronounce “specialize”?
“Specialize” is pronounced SPEH-shuh-lyz (/ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz/ in IPA).
How do you use “specialize” in a sentence?
Here is “specialize” used in a sentence: “She decided to specialize in pediatric medicine.”
What is the opposite of “specialize”?
The opposite of “specialize” — its antonyms — is generalize.
What part of speech is “specialize”?
“Specialize” is a verb.
Is “specialize” a common word?
“Specialize” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.