Specialize: meaning, definitions and examples

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specialize

 

[ ˈspeʃəˌlaɪz ]

Verb
Context #1 | Verb

in a professional field

To concentrate on and become an expert in a particular subject or skill.

Synonyms

concentrate on, focus on, major in.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
specialize

When someone develops expertise in a specific area, often used in professional and academic settings.

  • She decided to specialize in pediatric medicine.
  • The company specializes in renewable energy solutions.
focus on

When directing attention or efforts towards a specific task or objective, typically used in both professional and personal contexts.

  • He decided to focus on his career development.
  • The discussion will focus on budget planning.
concentrate on

To put effort or attention into a particular task or activity, generally used in everyday situations.

  • He needs to concentrate on his homework.
  • She cannot concentrate on her book with all this noise.
major in

Used specifically in the context of choosing a main field of study at a college or university.

  • She plans to major in computer science.
  • He is majoring in history.

Examples of usage

  • She decided to specialize in neurosurgery.
  • He chose to specialize in environmental law.
Context #2 | Verb

in a specific area

To focus on a specific area within a broader field.

Synonyms

be proficient in, excel in, have expertise in.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
specialize

Best for describing a focus or concentration on a particular area of study or profession.

  • Our company specializes in environmental consulting
  • She specializes in medieval literature
excel in

Implying someone is extremely good at something and performs better than others in that area. It often has a positive connotation.

  • He excels in mathematics
  • She excels in public speaking
be proficient in

Used to describe a middle to high level of skill in a particular area, but not necessarily indicating the highest level of mastery.

  • He is proficient in three languages
  • She is proficient in using Microsoft Excel
have expertise in

Indicates a high level of knowledge or skill in a specific field, usually after considerable study or experience.

  • He has expertise in cybersecurity
  • They have expertise in renewable energy sources

Examples of usage

  • The company specializes in organic skincare products.
  • The restaurant specializes in authentic Italian cuisine.
Context #3 | Verb

in a particular product or service

To produce or provide a particular product or service as a specialty.

Synonyms

deal in specifically, offer uniquely, provide exclusively.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
specialize

Used when referring to focusing on a particular area of expertise or a specific field of study or work.

  • She decided to specialize in pediatric medicine.
  • Our company specializes in eco-friendly products.
provide exclusively

Used when a service or product is available only through a specific source or to a select group, indicating exclusivity.

  • The club provides exclusively to its members.
  • This subscription service provides exclusively curated content.
offer uniquely

Used when providing a product or service that is unique or stands out compared to others, highlighting uniqueness.

  • This restaurant offers uniquely crafted cocktails.
  • The tour agency offers uniquely tailored travel experiences.
deal in specifically

Used when a person or company handles or trades in a particular kind of product or service, with an emphasis on specificity.

  • The store deals in specifically rare vintage books.
  • They deal in specifically high-end electronics.

Examples of usage

  • The bakery specializes in gluten-free pastries.
  • The travel agency specializes in luxury cruises.

Translations

Translations of the word "specialize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 especializar

🇮🇳 विशेषज्ञता प्राप्त करना

🇩🇪 spezialisieren

🇮🇩 mengkhususkan

🇺🇦 спеціалізуватися

🇵🇱 specjalizować się

🇯🇵 専門にする (せんもんにする)

🇫🇷 se spécialiser

🇪🇸 especializarse

🇹🇷 uzmanlaşmak

🇰🇷 전문으로 하다

🇸🇦 تخصص

🇨🇿 specializovat se

🇸🇰 špecializovať sa

🇨🇳 专门化 (zhuānménhuà)

🇸🇮 specializirati se

🇮🇸 sérhæfa sig

🇰🇿 мамандану

🇬🇪 სპეციალიზაცია (spetsializatsia)

🇦🇿 ixtisaslaşmaq

🇲🇽 especializarse

Etymology

The word 'specialize' originated in the mid-19th century, derived from the Latin word 'specialis' meaning 'of a kind'. It gained popularity in the context of focusing on specific skills or areas of expertise, reflecting the growth of specialized professions and industries during that time.

See also: special, specialist, specialists, specialization, specialized, specials, specialty.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,945, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.