Specialise vs. Specialize: What's the Difference?
By Janet White || Updated on November 14, 2023
"Specialise" and "specialize" are the same in meaning, referring to focusing on a specific area, but "specialise" is British English, while "specialize" is American English.
Key Differences
"Specialise" and "specialize" both mean to concentrate on and become expert in a particular subject or skill. The primary difference lies in their usage across different forms of English. "Specialise" is commonly used in British English, while "specialize" is the preferred spelling in American English.
In terms of pronunciation, "specialise" and "specialize" sound the same. Both words are derived from the Latin word "specialis," meaning "particular" or "distinct." This etymological root is a common factor in both spellings.
Both "specialise" and "specialize" are verbs. Their usage in sentences is interchangeable, with the only distinction being the regional preference for spelling. For example, academic and professional texts in the UK will predominantly use "specialise."
The suffixes "-ise" and "-ize" in "specialise" and "specialize" respectively represent a common divergence in British and American English spellings. This pattern is seen in other words like "realise/realize" and "organise/organize."
Despite their spelling differences, "specialise" and "specialize" have the same grammatical applications. They can be used in various tenses and forms without any difference in their meaning or function in a sentence.
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Comparison Chart
Spelling Variation
British English spelling
American English spelling
Usage
Commonly used in the UK and Commonwealth
Predominantly used in the United States
Suffix
Uses the suffix "-ise"
Uses the suffix "-ize"
Pronunciation
Pronounced the same as "specialize"
Pronounced the same as "specialise"
Grammatical Function
Same as "specialize" in all grammatical forms
Same as "specialise" in all grammatical forms
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Specialise and Specialize Definitions
Specialise
To focus on a specific subject or skill.
She decided to specialise in pediatric medicine.
Specialize
To gain expertise in a specific field or subject.
He specialized in 18th-century English literature.
Specialise
To become increasingly proficient in a particular area.
He chose to specialise in maritime law.
Specialize
To focus on a specific area of study or work.
She chose to specialize in neurology.
Specialise
To tailor services or products to a particular customer or need.
The firm decided to specialise in bespoke furniture.
Specialize
To cater specifically to a certain market or demographic.
The company specializes in high-end audio equipment.
Specialise
To adapt or evolve for a specific function or environment.
This species has specialised to survive in arid conditions.
Specialize
To develop unique features or skills for a particular role or environment.
The plant has specialized leaves for capturing sunlight efficiently.
Specialise
To restrict oneself to providing a particular product or service.
The bakery started to specialise in vegan pastries.
Specialize
To limit one's business or activity to a particular area of expertise.
After years of expansion, the restaurant decided to specialize in Italian cuisine.
Specialise
Standard spelling of specialize
Specialize
To pursue a special activity, occupation, or field of study
A doctor who specializes in cardiology.
Specialise
Devote oneself to a special area of work;
She specializes in honey bees
This plumber specialized in jacuzzis
Specialize
To provide something in particular or have something as a focus
The shop specializes in mountain-climbing gear.
Specialise
Be specific about;
Could you please specify your criticism of my paper?
Specialize
(Biology) To become adapted to a specific function or environment; undergo specialization.
Specialise
Suit to a special purpose;
Specialize one's research
Specialise
Become more special;
We specialize in dried flowers
Specialise
Evolve so as to lead to a new species or develop in a way most suited to the environment
FAQs
Do "specialise" and "specialize" have the same pronunciation?
Yes, both words are pronounced identically.
Do "specialise" and "specialize" have the same grammatical usage?
Yes, their grammatical usage is identical.
Are there any spelling variations of "specialise/specialize" in different English-speaking countries?
Yes, "specialise" is preferred in the UK and Commonwealth countries, while "specialize" is preferred in the US.
What is the origin of "specialise/specialize"?
Both come from the Latin "specialis," meaning "specific" or "distinct."
Can "specialise" and "specialize" be part of compound words?
Yes, they can form compound words like "specialised/specialized training."
Can both "specialise" and "specialize" be used in various tenses?
Yes, both can be used in different tenses without any change in meaning.
Are there other words similar to "specialise/specialize" with regional spelling differences?
Yes, words like "realise/realize" and "organise/organize" follow similar patterns.
In academic writing, should I use "specialise" or "specialize"?
It depends on the preferred English form of the institution or publication.
Are "specialise" and "specialize" interchangeable?
Yes, they are interchangeable but used in different forms of English.
Is "specialize" acceptable in British English?
"Specialize" is less common in British English but is still correct.
Is the meaning of "specialise" and "specialize" different in professional contexts?
No, they have the same meaning in all contexts.
Can "specialise" be used in American English?
While not standard, it can be understood in American English.
Can "specialise" and "specialize" be used as nouns?
No, they are strictly verbs; the noun forms are "specialisation" and "specialization."
Are there any exceptions to the rule of using "specialise" in British English and "specialize" in American English?
Generally, no; these are the standard forms in their respective versions of English.
Are there any synonyms for "specialise/specialize"?
Yes, words like "focus," "concentrate," and "expertise" can be similar in meaning.
Can "specialise" and "specialize" be used in informal contexts?
Yes, they are appropriate for both formal and informal contexts.
Do "specialise" and "specialize" have any different connotations?
No, they carry the same connotations in all contexts.
Is it common to see "specialise" and "specialize" in business language?
Yes, both are commonly used in business and professional language.
How do I know whether to use "specialise" or "specialize"?
Consider the regional English you are writing in; use "specialise" for British English and "specialize" for American English.
Is it incorrect to use "specialize" in a British English document?
It's not incorrect, but "specialise" is the preferred form in British English.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
