able-bodied

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "able-bodied" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a person who is physically fit and strong and able to perform certain tasks. For example, "The army recruits must be able-bodied individuals with the right physical abilities to meet the requirements of the job."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I'm perfectly able-bodied.

The New York Times

He's an able-bodied man.

The New York Times - Magazine

The population is 143; 23 able-bodied men.

The New Yorker

My bike is for able-bodied folks.

The New York Times

But there are few able-bodied men.

The New York Times

"Able-bodied mocking the disabled isn't funny".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

I am married (to an able-bodied man) and have one child (also able-bodied).

The New York Times

The young and the able-bodied were sent to work.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Charred, blind survivors begged the able-bodied for water.

Independent

How long must an able-bodied person work before retirement?

The New York Times

"There's just as much as able-bodied hockey".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able-bodied", consider the context and ensure it's used respectfully, especially when contrasting with individuals with disabilities. Avoid using it in a way that implies superiority.

Common error

Avoid assuming that all "able-bodied" individuals have the same physical capabilities or health status. Recognize that there is a range of abilities within this group.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "able-bodied" is as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe individuals who are physically fit and capable. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Examples from Ludwig show it modifying "men", "folks", and "sailors".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

21%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Huffington Post

4%

Vice

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "able-bodied" is an adjective used to describe individuals who are physically fit and capable. Ludwig AI confirms that it is correct and usable in written English. As detailed in the linguistic analysis, its primary function is descriptive, and it's generally used in a neutral register. Its frequency of use is classified as "very common", particularly in News & Media and Science contexts. While the term is not inherently offensive, it’s essential to use it respectfully and be mindful of the context to avoid implying superiority. Alternatives like "physically fit" or "in good health" can be used depending on the nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physically fit

Focuses on the state of being in good physical condition.

in good health

Emphasizes overall health status rather than just physical ability.

physically strong

Highlights the aspect of physical strength.

robust

Implies vigor and health, a more formal alternative.

vigorous

Suggests energy and activity, similar to robustness.

healthy and strong

Combines both health and strength aspects.

fit and healthy

Similar to "healthy and strong", but with a slightly different emphasis.

in shape

A more informal way to describe physical fitness.

sound of body

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "able-bodied".

in tip-top condition

Suggests being in excellent physical condition, often used informally.

FAQs

How can I use "able-bodied" in a sentence?

You can use "able-bodied" to describe someone who is physically fit and capable of performing tasks. For example, "The company is seeking "able-bodied" workers for the construction site".

What is a good alternative to "able-bodied"?

Alternatives include "physically fit", "in good health", or "physically strong", depending on the specific context.

Is it offensive to use the term "able-bodied"?

The term "able-bodied" itself is not inherently offensive, but it's important to use it respectfully and avoid implying that being able-bodied is superior to having a disability. Context matters greatly.

What's the difference between "able-bodied" and "healthy"?

"Able-bodied" specifically refers to physical fitness and capability, while "healthy" encompasses overall well-being, including mental and emotional health. Someone can be healthy without being exceptionally physically fit.