B2verb 3K

Specialize

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Specialize

to become an expert in a particular area of work, study or business; to spend more time on one area of work, etc. than on others

In simple words: To focus on one particular area of study or work.

Specialize in a sentence

• Many students prefer not to specialize too soon.
• He specialized in criminal law.
• The shop specializes in hand-made chocolates.

How to use Specialize

Use 'specialize' when talking about someone's expertise. It's appropriate in both professional and academic contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless discussing careers.

Grammar pattern

specialize + in/at + field/topic

Memory hint

Think of 'spelling it out' to find your special area.

Related words

Collocations with Specialize

• specialize in medicine
• specialize at a university
• specialize in technology
• specialize as a consultant
• specialize for a career

Synonyms for Specialize

• focus
• concentrate
• practice
• pursue
• narrow

Opposites of Specialize

• generalize
• broaden

Common mistakes with Specialize

• Confuse 'specialize' with 'generalize', using the wrong term for focus versus broad knowledge.
• Incorrectly use 'specialization' in place of 'specialize' in sentence structure.
• Use 'specialization' when referring to non-academic fields, leading to confusion.

Frequently asked questions about Specialize

What does Specialize mean?

To focus on one particular area of study or work.

What is the definition of Specialize?

to become an expert in a particular area of work, study or business; to spend more time on one area of work, etc. than on others

How do you use Specialize in a sentence?

Many students prefer not to specialize too soon.

Can you give another example of Specialize?

He specialized in criminal law.

What are synonyms for Specialize?

Common alternatives include focus, concentrate, practice, pursue, narrow.

What is the opposite of Specialize?

Opposite meanings include generalize, broaden.

What words go with Specialize?

It commonly pairs with specialize in medicine, specialize at a university, specialize in technology, specialize as a consultant, specialize for a career.

What are common mistakes when using Specialize?

Confuse 'specialize' with 'generalize', using the wrong term for focus versus broad knowledge. Incorrectly use 'specialization' in place of 'specialize' in sentence structure. Use 'specialization' when referring to non-academic fields, leading to confusion.

How do you pronounce Specialize?

US: /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪz/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/","/ˈspeʃəlaɪzɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Specialize?

Use 'specialize' when talking about someone's expertise. It's appropriate in both professional and academic contexts. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless discussing careers.

What CEFR level is Specialize?

"Specialize" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.