To specialize is to focus on one particular subject, skill, or type of work and become especially good at it. It often means not doing as many other things.
From Medieval Latin *specializare* “to make special,” from Latin *specialis* “particular, individual,” from *species* “kind, appearance.” It entered English in the 17th century.
Biology and economics both love the idea of specialization: creatures and people that focus on one job can become extremely efficient—but also more dependent on others. The word hides a trade-off between depth and flexibility.
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