handicap

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "handicap" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing physical or mental disabilities, as well as in sports or competitive scenarios where a disadvantage is intentionally created to level the playing field. Example: "The athlete was given a handicap to ensure a fair competition against faster runners."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In theory, however, we'll be able to counter this evolutionary handicap by engineering our marriages with drugs.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This brings us to his most serious handicap.

The Guardian - Opinion

There was a recall for Wayne Rooney, Rio Ferdinand was fit to make his first appearance since May and Smalling was allowed his first start after the summer move from Fulham; the clean sheet indicates that his inclusion was no handicap.

The Guardian - Sport

But, as he explains why that's no handicap in his present post, he sounds remarkably like someone rehearsing his answer when asked it by the interviewers for the top job.

The Guardian

They attributed the larger wide plates to males, in keeping with the "handicap hypothesis", which sees males invest in cumbersome body parts to prove their evolutionary fitness.

The Guardian

In the fillies handicap at Brighton, I'll take Tears Of The Sun (4.20), who went close at this track last time on her second start for Clive Cox.

The Guardian - Sport

And there is little evidence thus far that the population will be within the GOP's reach in 2016 – a handicap that could haunt the party even in their southern stronghold.

The Guardian

The headscarf worn by most of the young Muslim women soon proved a handicap.

The Guardian - Sport

But others see his apparent distance from the still-powerful army as a handicap.

The Economist

After all, Mr Specter's chief handicap was that he was a Republican until crossing the aisle just over a year ago.

The Economist

But Mr Jain is much the bigger casualty: three years ago many assumed Mr Fitschen was chaperoning the younger man, a non-German speaker who had built up Deutsche's investment bank in London, before he went on to take the reins alone.In fact, it is Mr Jain's investing-banking experience which at one time marked him out for the top job that has now proven to be a handicap.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "handicap" in the context of disabilities, consider person-first language (e.g., "person with a disability" instead of "handicapped person") to promote respect and inclusivity.

Common error

Avoid using "handicap" when "challenge" is more appropriate. "Handicap" typically refers to a disadvantage imposed to equalize chances or a condition that limits abilities, while "challenge" describes a difficult task or situation that can be overcome.

Linguistic Context

The word "handicap" functions primarily as a noun, denoting something that hinders or disadvantages, or a system of equalization in sports. Ludwig provides numerous examples where "handicap" acts as a noun, describing a limitation or a barrier. It can also function as a verb, meaning to put at a disadvantage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

3%

Wiki

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "handicap" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb, most commonly used to describe a disadvantage or a system for equalizing chances in a competition. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for use in diverse contexts. While predominantly found in neutral and professional settings like news and business, it's crucial to use person-first language when referring to disabilities, avoiding outdated or potentially offensive terminology. When a simple difficulty is being described, consider using synonyms like "challenge", "obstacle" or "impediment", as these capture the spirit of overcoming. Remembering that "handicap" can equalize conditions is essential for precision. It is a very common term, so its presence is not surprising.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disadvantage

Replaces "handicap" by focusing on the state of being in an unfavorable position.

impediment

Similar to "handicap", it denotes something that hinders or obstructs progress.

obstacle

Indicates a barrier or something that blocks progress, akin to a "handicap".

hindrance

Implies something that holds back or obstructs, much like a "handicap".

drawback

Highlights a negative aspect or limitation, similar to the effect of a "handicap".

liability

Focuses on the burden or disadvantage imposed, similar to the impact of a "handicap".

disability

Specifically refers to a physical or mental condition that limits a person's abilities, a more direct synonym when "handicap" refers to such conditions.

equalizing factor

Emphasizes the action of making chances fairer, addressing the purpose of a "handicap" in competition.

leveling the playing field

A phrase that captures the intent behind using a "handicap" to make a competition fairer.

imposing a disadvantage

Highlights the act of creating an unequal situation, similar to setting a "handicap".

FAQs

How can I use "handicap" in a sentence?

You can use "handicap" to describe something that hinders progress, such as "His lack of experience was a significant handicap". It can also refer to a system of equalization in sports, like "The golf tournament uses a handicap system to level the playing field".

What is the difference between "disability" and "handicap"?

"Disability" refers to a physical or mental impairment that limits a person's abilities. "Handicap", in this context, refers to the disadvantage or barrier imposed by society or the environment on a person with a disability. Using person-first language such as "person with a disability" is generally preferred.

What are some alternatives to using the word "handicap"?

Depending on the context, you could use "disadvantage", "impediment", "obstacle", or "hindrance". In a sports context, you might refer to a system of "equalization".

Is it offensive to use the term "handicapped"?

While "handicapped" was once common, it's now often considered outdated and less respectful than person-first language. Phrases like "person with a disability" are generally preferred as they focus on the individual rather than the condition.