financially handicapped

USAGE SUMMARY

"financially handicapped" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to people who are in a difficult financial situation and lack essential resources. For example, "Many individuals in low-income families are financially handicapped and unable to meet basic living expenses."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The team, however, remains financially handicapped, and with the league's international transfer window closing on August 8, further international acquisitions won't be forthcoming.

The Guardian - Sport

Collins and Alderson have endured three rebuilding years together with the same truth weighing on them: the Mets were financially handicapped, unable to make the necessary moves to lift the team's talent level.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

Most states and many cities undertook programs to teach the handicapped, though financially the going was difficult.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Some simply can't keep up and are defaulting, a financially ruinous outcome for young people further handicapped by strict laws that prevent discharging student debt through bankruptcy.

Huffington Post

handicapped me somewhat.

The New York Times

Street-level, handicapped access.

The New York Times

He looks reasonably handicapped.

The Guardian - Sport

Many were handicapped.

The Guardian

Northlandz is handicapped accessible.

The New York Times

The handicapped parking spot.

The New Yorker

Restrooms not handicapped accessible.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context when using the phrase "financially handicapped". While grammatically correct, it may be perceived as insensitive. Opt for alternatives like "financially disadvantaged" or "facing financial hardship" in situations where sensitivity is paramount.

Common error

Avoid using "financially handicapped" in formal or sensitive contexts without careful consideration. The term can sound insensitive and perpetuate negative stereotypes. Before using it, assess if a more neutral or empathetic alternative would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "financially handicapped" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun to indicate that something or someone is at a disadvantage due to financial constraints. Ludwig identifies this as a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "financially handicapped" is grammatically sound but carries potential for insensitivity. Ludwig's analysis, despite identifying it as usable, suggests considering alternative phrasings like "financially disadvantaged" or "struggling financially" to ensure appropriateness and empathy. Usage is relatively rare, primarily appearing in News & Media, as well as Encyclopedia contexts, requiring careful consideration of tone and audience to prevent unintended offense.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Financially disadvantaged

Emphasizes a lack of opportunities due to financial circumstances.

Financially challenged

A more polite and less direct way of saying someone has money problems.

Struggling financially

Focuses on the ongoing effort to manage financial difficulties.

Having limited financial resources

A formal way of stating that someone does not have much money.

Facing financial hardship

Highlights the difficulties and challenges caused by a lack of money.

Economically vulnerable

Emphasizes the instability and risk associated with a difficult financial situation.

Living in poverty

Refers to a severe lack of income and resources to meet basic needs.

Indebted

Focuses on the state of owing money to others.

Impoverished

Describes a state of being made poor.

Broke

An informal way of saying that someone has no money.

FAQs

What does "financially handicapped" mean?

The phrase "financially handicapped" describes someone who is at a disadvantage due to their financial situation, lacking the resources to improve their circumstances.

Is "financially handicapped" considered offensive?

While grammatically correct, "financially handicapped" can be seen as insensitive by some. Alternatives like "financially disadvantaged" or "financially challenged" are often preferred.

How can I use "financially handicapped" in a sentence?

Example: "The team, however, remains "financially handicapped", and with the league's international transfer window closing on August 8, further international acquisitions won't be forthcoming."

What are some less direct alternatives to "financially handicapped"?

Consider using "struggling financially", "having limited financial resources", or "facing financial hardship" for a more empathetic tone.