ENGLISH
REFERENCE

disabilities

n. countable
B1 Intermediate US //dɪsəˈbɪɫətiz// UK //dˌɪsɐbˈɪlətˌiz// dis·abil·i·ties

n. physical or mental conditions that make it harder for a person to do certain activities or interact with the world around them.

n. physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities. Often used in the plural to refer to the broad spectrum of functional challenges faced by a population.


SIMPLE

The building has ramps to help people with physical disabilities.

CONTEXTUAL

The new law ensures that students with learning disabilities receive extra time and support during their final exams.

COMPLEX

Modern urban planning increasingly focuses on universal design to ensure that individuals with diverse disabilities can navigate public spaces with the same autonomy as any other citizen.

Synonyms
Usage

Commonly follows the preposition 'with' when describing people; 'people with disabilities' is currently the standard neutral phrasing in professional contexts.

Pitfall

the disabilities peoplepeople with disabilitiesIn modern English, it is standard to use person-first language, placing the person before the condition using the preposition 'with'.

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