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specialise

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈspɛʃəlaɪz//

KK: /ˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz/

verb
Definition

To focus on a particular area of study or work, becoming an expert in that field.


Example

She decided to specialise in marine biology during her studies.


Tense Forms

Past: specialised

Past Participle: specialised


Conversation
Sloth A
What field do you specialise in at university?
Sloth B
I specialise in environmental science. It's fascinating!
Sloth A
That's awesome! I think I'd like to specialise in psychology myself.
Sloth B
That sounds great! Understanding the human mind is really important.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
focus
concentrate
expertise
Antonyms
generalize
neglect
ignore
Root Explanation

Specialise → It is formed from "special" (from Latin "specialis", meaning particular or individual) and "-ise" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating the process of becoming or causing to be). The word "specialise" means to make or become specialized in a particular area or field.

Memory Tip

Think of becoming more 'particular' ('special') in your skills or knowledge when you 'make' or 'cause' that focus ('-ise').

Visually Confused Words
despecialize
spiralwise
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