particularize
UK: pəˈtɪkjʊləraɪz | US: pərˈtɪkjələraɪz
vt. To specify or describe in detail; to make particular or distinct.
vi. To go into details; to elaborate.
The word "particularize" combines "particular," derived from the Latin particula (a small part or particle), with the suffix "-ize," which originates from Greek -izein (to make or become). The Latin root particula itself comes from pars (part), emphasizing the idea of focusing on individual components. Over time, "particular" evolved to mean "specific" or "detailed," and adding "-ize" transformed it into a verb meaning "to make specific." This reflects a logical progression from the general (parts) to the precise (detailed specification).
The lawyer asked the witness to particularize the events of that day.
The report fails to particularize the causes of the problem.
She tends to particularize every minor detail in her instructions.
The contract must particularize the responsibilities of each party.
Historians often particularize historical trends to highlight individual experiences.