specialize
SPEH-shuh-lyz
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.”
verb
1
To focus one's study, work, or business on a particular area rather than a broad range.
"She decided to specialize in pediatric medicine."
"The bakery specializes in sourdough bread."
How to use specialize
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo narrow your focus down to one particular skill, subject, or product.
UK vs US
British English also spells this "specialise."
Common pairings
specialize in
specialize early
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- specializes
- Past tense
- specialized
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
View more →Antonyms
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.
