What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
expert
Example
She is an expert in the field of neuroscience. [expert: noun]
Example
He is an expert at playing the guitar. [expert: adjective]
specialist
Example
She went to see a specialist for her back pain. [specialist: noun]
Example
He is a specialist in environmental law. [specialist: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Expert is more commonly used than specialist in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts. However, specialist is more commonly used in professional or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between expert and specialist?
Both expert and specialist can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, specialist is more commonly used in professional or technical contexts, which tend to be more formal.
