specializes

Specializes is the third-person singular present tense of the verb specialize. It denotes focusing attention, effort, or training on a particular field, skill, or product, resulting in greater expertise or efficiency. It is commonly used with the preposition in, as in "The hospital specializes in pediatric cardiology." It can also describe a business or person whose work is limited to a specific domain, for example "The company specializes in automotive parts."

Etymology: the word derives from Latin specialis meaning "of a kind, particular," via Old French specialiser. It entered English in the 16th century and has since become widely used in professional and everyday language.

Grammar and usage notes: the form "specializes" is used with third-person singular subjects; other forms include "specialize" for I/you/we/they, and "specializing" as a present participle. The standard construction is "specializes in [field]." Some style guides prefer alternatives such as "focuses on" or "concentrates on" in contexts where precision is not required; "specializes on" is less common and often discouraged.

Context and implications: in economics and industry, specialization refers to concentrating production or expertise to improve efficiency and, often, to gain a comparative advantage. For individuals, it signals professional focus and can shape career paths. Related terms include specialization, specialist, specialty, and specialized.