handicapped

/ˈhændikæpt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈhændikæpt/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈhan-di-ˌkapt -dē-/ (ame, mw) · /ˈhæn.dɪ.kæpt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈhæn.dɪ.kæpt/ (ame, ipa)

handicapped — adjective

  • handicappedpositive
  • more handicappedcomparative
  • most handicappedsuperlative

1. (no longer considered acceptable) describing someone who has a physical or menta

1.形容詞B1
釋義

(no longer considered acceptable) describing someone who has a physical or mental condition that makes everyday activities harder than they are for most people. The preferred modern terms are 'disabled' or 'having a disability.'

例句

The old school had narrow doors that were hard for handicapped students to use.

register note: dated term, now replaced by 'disabled'

A 1990s report used 'handicapped workers,' but now companies say 'employees with disabilities.'

historical usage contrast with modern preferred term

同義詞
  • disabled

    the preferred modern term in most contexts; broader and less stigmatising

  • impaired

    used in specific medical or technical contexts (e.g., 'visually impaired'), but can sound clinical outside those fields

反義詞
  • able-bodied

    describes someone without a disability; the neutral counterpart

文法句型

handicapped + noun

用法筆記

This term is now widely considered offensive. Use 'disabled' (e.g., 'disabled students') or 'having a disability' (e.g., 'students having a disability') instead. Many style guides and legal documents have replaced 'handicapped' with 'accessible' or 'disability-friendly' when describing facilities.

常見錯誤

❌The library built a ramp for handicapped visitors.
✅The library built a ramp for visitors with disabilities.
💡'handicapped' is outdated and can be offensive; use 'with disabilities' or 'disabled.'
❌She is handicapped by her fear of public speaking.
✅She is held back by her fear of public speaking.
💡'handicapped' as a verb for non-medical obstacles can sound insensitive; use 'held back,' 'limited,' or 'restricted.'

handicapped — noun