he is disabled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "he is disabled" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to someone who has a physical or mental condition that limits their movements, senses, or activities. Example: "He is disabled, but he has found ways to adapt and lead a fulfilling life."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

He is disabled and unable to travel.

The New York Times

But, he insists, that does not mean he is disabled.

The New York Times

He is disabled and cannot write letters and has difficulty in making phone calls.

Independent

According to court papers, he is disabled and has an income of $786 a month.

The New York Times

He's difficult not only because he is disabled -- Mr. Amelio addresses his difficulties with a pitiless eye -- but also because he is a teenager.

The New York Times

The National Hockey League also has a group policy that pays teams the full value of a player's contract if he is disabled.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

He was disabled enough to receive a Social Security disability check.

The New York Times

He's disabled," she said.

The New York Times

In the late summer, he was disabled with right elbow inflammation.

The New York Times - Sports

Did I enjoy his achievement more because he was disabled?

The Guardian - Opinion

He knew he was disabled BEFORE he got on the plane.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Provide specific and accurate information about the person's abilities/disabilities. Rather than stating that "he is disabled", consider specifying "he has limited mobility due to a spinal injury".

Common error

While intending to be sensitive, overly euphemistic language (e.g., "specially-abled") can sometimes feel condescending or insincere. Use clear and respectful language like "person with a disability" or specific descriptions of their condition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "he is disabled" functions as a declarative statement indicating that an individual has a disability. It provides information about a person's condition, describing a state of being. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "he is disabled" is a common and grammatically correct way to state that an individual has a disability. Ludwig AI confirms this, finding the phrase used across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, science, and formal business settings. While acceptable, it's essential to consider person-first language and context, as highlighted in the writing guidance. Alternatives such as "he has a disability" or "he is living with a disability" might be more appropriate depending on the situation, focusing on the person rather than defining them solely by their disability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

He is a person with a disability

Person-first language, emphasizing the individual before the condition.

He has a disability

Focuses on the condition as a characteristic rather than a state.

He is living with a disability

Emphasizes the ongoing experience of managing a disability.

He is differently abled

A more positive and inclusive term, focusing on abilities rather than limitations.

He has special needs

Highlights the requirement for specific accommodations or assistance.

He is impaired

Focuses on the reduced functionality of a specific body part or system.

He is physically challenged

Similar to 'differently abled', emphasizing overcoming challenges.

He experiences mobility issues

Specifically addresses difficulties with movement.

He is incapacitated

Implies a complete or significant loss of ability.

He is unable to perform certain tasks

Focuses on specific limitations in functionality.

FAQs

How can I respectfully refer to someone who has a disability?

It is generally recommended to use person-first language, such as "a person with a disability", instead of terms like "disabled person". This emphasizes the individual before their condition. When possible, be specific about the type of disability.

What are some alternatives to saying "he is disabled"?

Consider alternatives like "he has a disability", "he is living with a disability", or "he is differently abled", depending on the context and desired tone.

Is it appropriate to use the term "handicapped" instead of "disabled"?

While "handicapped" was once commonly used, it is now often considered outdated and offensive by many people with disabilities. It's best to use "disabled" or "person with a disability" instead.

When is it necessary to mention someone's disability in writing?

Only mention a person's disability when it is relevant to the context. Unnecessarily highlighting someone's disability can perpetuate stereotypes or create a sense of otherness.