C1adjective2K

Specialized

UK /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/"]/US /["/ˈspeʃəlaɪzd/"]/

Definition

designed or developed for a particular purpose or area of knowledge

In simple words: Having a specific skill or knowledge in a certain area.

Examples

  • specialized equipment
  • a job calling for highly specialized skills
  • Our industry is quite specialized.
  • These tools are very specialized.
  • This bird is highly specialized for eating fish.
  • narrowly specialized subjects

Usage notes

Used to describe someone or something that is focused on a specific function or area of expertise. It is appropriate in both casual and formal contexts, but less so in everyday conversation where simpler terms might be preferred.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Think of a 'special' tool that is designed for a particular job.

Collocations

  • be
  • become
  • highly
  • very
  • increasingly
  • for

Synonyms

  • expert
  • professional
  • focused
  • narrow
  • specific

Antonyms

  • general
  • basic
  • ordinary

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'special' - 'specialized' implies a specific focus, 'special' does not.
  • Using it as a verb - 'specialized' is an adjective, not a verb.
  • Misplacing in sentences - should directly describe the noun it modifies.