What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
specialized
Example
The company offers specialized services for the healthcare industry. [specialized: adjective]
Example
She has a specialized degree in computer science. [specialized: adjective]
Example
He specializes in tax law and works for a law firm. [specializes: verb]
skilled
Example
The chef is highly skilled in preparing sushi. [skilled: adjective]
Example
She has a skilled hand in painting and sells her artwork online. [skilled: adjective]
Example
He learned a skilled trade as a carpenter and now runs his own business. [skilled: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Skilled is more commonly used than specialized in everyday language. Skilled is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while specialized is less common and refers to a more specific area of knowledge or expertise.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between specialized and skilled?
Both specialized and skilled can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, specialized may be more formal due to its association with formal education or training in a particular field.
