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subspecialize

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌsʌbˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz/

KK: /sʌbˈspɛʃəˌlaɪz/

intransitive verb
Definition

To focus on a specific area of a broader field of study or practice, often after completing general training.


Example

After completing her residency, she decided to subspecialize in pediatric cardiology.


Tense Forms

Past: subspecialized

Past Participle: subspecialized


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard you want to subspecialize in dermatology, is that true?
Sloth B
Yeah, I really love the skin health aspect of medicine.
Sloth A
That's awesome! What made you decide to subspecialize?
Sloth B
I had a great mentor who inspired me during my rotations.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
specialize
focus
concentrate
Antonyms
generalize
diversify
broaden
Root Explanation

Subspecialize → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "specialize" (from Latin "specialis", meaning particular or specific). The word "subspecialize" means to specialize in a specific area that is a subset of a broader field.

Memory Tip

Think of focusing on a specific area that is 'under' ('sub-') a larger field of expertise, which is what it means to subspecialize.

Visually Confused Words
specialize
superspecialize
unspecialized
specializer
specialized
superficialize
despecialize
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