handicap
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.something that makes it difficult for you to do something or succeed.
n.a circumstance or condition that hampers or hinders progress or success.
Simple“Not being able to speak the local language was a major handicap during his business trip.”
In context“The lack of reliable high-speed internet in rural areas remains a significant handicap for small businesses trying to compete in the global market.”
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.an advantage or disadvantage given to players in a game to make the competition fair.
n.an allowance of time, distance, or points granted to a weaker competitor, or a penalty imposed on a stronger one, to equalise chances of winning.
Simple“He has a golf handicap of ten, which allows him to compete against more experienced players.”
In context“In horse racing, a handicap is often applied by requiring faster horses to carry additional weight to ensure a more competitive field.”
Synonyms - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.
n.a physical or mental disability that restricts a person's ability to perform tasks. This term is increasingly replaced by 'disability' in modern contexts.
Simple“The building was renovated to make it easier for people with a physical handicap to enter.”
In context“Social policies have shifted from viewing a physical handicap as a personal tragedy to seeing it as a matter of accessibility and civil rights.”
UsageUsually countable when referring to a specific condition.
Teacher's tipThis term is now considered dated or offensive by many people when referring to individuals; 'disability' is the preferred modern term in professional and social settings.
Synonyms - 04 C1 Advanced
v.to make it difficult for someone to do something or to be successful.
v.to place someone or something at a disadvantage; to encumber or hinder.
Simple“The team was handicapped by the sudden injury of their best player.”
In context“The company was severely handicapped by a lack of investment capital during its first three years of operation.”
- 05 C2 Proficiency
v.to predict who will win a race or game based on their past performance.
v.to analyse and predict the outcome of a sporting event, especially for the purpose of betting.
Simple“He spends his weekends handicapping horse races at the local track.”
In context“Professional analysts spend hours handicapping the upcoming tournament, taking into account everything from player fatigue to weather conditions.”
“A year after taking up golf, Rachel Daly has already reached a handicap of 19.”
From hand-in-cap, in reference to holding the game stakes in a cap.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.