disabled for life

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disabled for life" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who has a permanent disability that affects their ability to function normally in society. Example: "After the accident, he was declared disabled for life and had to adjust to a new way of living."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

A further 3.2 million of those who survive may be mentally and physically disabled for life.

Independent

He is said by his lawyer to have been disabled for life.

The Guardian

Rodrigues's lawyer, Philippe de Veulle, told BFM television: "He will be disabled for life.

The Guardian

Our people dying in Iraq, and coming home disabled for life.

The New York Times

Many require months or years of rehabilitation to regain their independence and some are left disabled for life.

Independent

His left side has been partly paralyzed ever since, and Mr. Hand says he is disabled for life.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

When he tried to leave assets for his disabled son in trust "for life," someone from the software company called to say that the program required that he insert a specific age instead.

Forbes

His brother, Michael, a year older than him, was severely disabled for much of his life, before dying in 2001 at the age of 26.

The New York Times

Free care for life for all disabled children and anyone developing eligible care needs by the age of 40.

The Guardian

Ill with genetic heart trouble for much of his life, occasionally disabled for months by strokes and heart attacks, he felt death alongside him like "a spouse".

The Economist

"They want to do more treatments, but they are basically saying I am going to be disabled for the rest of my life," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "disabled for life", consider the context and ensure it aligns with the individual's or community's preferences regarding disability language. Person-first language (e.g., "a person with a lifelong disability") is often preferred as it emphasizes the individual rather than the disability.

Common error

Avoid using outdated or offensive terms like "crippled" or "invalid" as synonyms for "disabled for life". These terms are often considered derogatory and can perpetuate negative stereotypes. Instead, opt for respectful and person-centered language.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disabled for life" functions as an adjective phrase describing the permanent state of disability. It modifies a noun (often implied, such as 'person' or 'individual') indicating that the disability is expected to last the individual's entire lifetime. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disabled for life" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase that describes a permanent disability. According to Ludwig AI, it is acceptable to use in written English. While this phrase is widely understood, it's important to be mindful of the potential for insensitivity and consider using person-first language like "person with a lifelong disability" when appropriate. The term appears most frequently in news and media, formal business contexts and science. When writing, avoid outdated or offensive terms and always prioritize respectful language. Understanding the nuance is key to using it correctly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

permanently disabled

Emphasizes the lasting nature of the disability.

lifelong disability

Highlights that the disability will affect the person throughout their life.

incapacitated for life

Focuses on the loss of capacity or ability to function.

permanently impaired

Focuses on the lasting damage or weakening of a physical or mental function.

invalid for life

Indicates a state of being unfit or unable to live a normal life, carrying a slightly outdated connotation.

injured for life

Highlights that the disability resulted from an injury, either physical or psychological.

maimed for life

Implies severe physical injury leading to permanent disability.

crippled for life

Indicates a severe physical disability, often affecting mobility; this term can be considered offensive.

living with a permanent disability

Focuses on the experience of managing life with a long-term disability.

suffering from a lifelong condition

Indicates the impact of a chronic health issue on quality of life.

FAQs

What does "disabled for life" mean?

The phrase "disabled for life" describes a condition where someone has a permanent disability that significantly impacts their ability to perform daily activities and participate fully in society. It indicates that the disability is expected to last for the remainder of the person's life.

What can I say instead of "disabled for life"?

You can use alternatives like "permanently disabled", "lifelong disability", or "living with a permanent disability" depending on the context and the preference of the individual being described.

Is it better to say "disabled for life" or "person with a lifelong disability"?

While "disabled for life" is grammatically correct, many people prefer person-first language, such as "person with a lifelong disability", as it emphasizes the individual rather than the disability. It's always best to respect the preferences of the person you're referring to.

How can I use the term "disabled for life" respectfully?

Use the term "disabled for life" respectfully by avoiding negative connotations and focusing on the individual's abilities and strengths. Consider using person-first language when appropriate, and always be mindful of the potential impact of your words. Use the expression in formal or neutral contexts but avoid slang or informal use of the term.