impaired mental function

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "impaired mental function" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing cognitive abilities, mental health, or neurological conditions. Example: "The study focused on individuals with impaired mental function to better understand the effects of aging on cognitive health."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

Formal & Business

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The iNPH was clinically diagnosed in these patients according to the standard classic triad of gait impairment, urinary incontinence and impaired mental function, supported by ventricular dilatation and dilatation of Sylvian fissures, and narrowing of sulci and subarachnoid spaces over the high convexity without significant cerebral atrophy on CT or MRI.

Acta Neurochirurgica

They help many people with those diseases function better, but can have serious side effects, including diabetes, tremors, seizures, high blood pressure, obesity, sedation, aches and impaired mental function.

The New York Times - Health

The main forms of IDD in adults are goitre, hypothyroidism and impaired mental function.

Unicef

The iodine deficiency in children causes goitre, reduced thyroid hormone synthesis, delayed physical development and mental retardation, while for adults it causes goiter, hypothyroidism, impaired mental function and reduced fertility.

Unicef

Impaired mental function, impaired mobility, and old age are common denominators associated with the risk of falling.

BMC Geriatrics

He has taken Howard Marks to task for his hash-induced impaired mental function, ticked off Harry Hill for eating oven chips and Jackie Collins for her Yorkshire pudding habit.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Hallucinations, depression, and anxiety from sleep deprivation severely impair mental function to the extent that even simple tasks, such as talking or driving, can become a challenge.

Huffington Post

Mr. Carabello has cerebral palsy, which does not impair mental functioning.

The New York Times

And after creation of a TIPS, closure of the TIPS itself may be indicated if the resulting hepatic encephalopathy severely impairs mental functioning.

CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology

Moreover, after creation of a TIPS, closure of the TIPS itself may be indicated when hepatic encephalopathy severely impairs mental functioning.

CardioVascular and Interventional Radiology

Regardless of the data source defining the general US population, patients with psoriasis reported similar physical functioning and more impaired mental health functioning compared with general population norms, even after adjusting for age, sex, and race.

Health and Quality of Life Outcomes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a specific condition, clarify the specific cognitive domains affected (e.g., memory, attention, executive functions) to provide a more accurate and detailed picture of the "impaired mental function".

Common error

Avoid using "impaired mental function" as a catch-all term. Instead, be specific about the type and extent of the impairment, as this provides more useful and accurate information.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "impaired mental function" acts as a descriptor, modifying a noun (often a person or subject) to indicate a state of reduced or compromised cognitive abilities. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is appropriate and suitable for describing cognitive or neurological states.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Science

60%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "impaired mental function" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression for describing reduced or compromised cognitive abilities. According to Ludwig, it is appropriate in various contexts, including science, news, and formal settings. It serves to inform and describe a particular condition, frequently in medical or research scenarios. While alternatives like "cognitive decline" or "reduced mental capacity" exist, the choice depends on the desired nuance. Recognizing the potential for overgeneralization is vital, as specifying the affected cognitive domains provides more clarity. Ultimately, the phrase offers a versatile means of communicating cognitive challenges, with its precise application dependent on context and desired level of detail.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

cognitive impairment

A more general term for any type of cognitive deficit.

cognitive decline

Focuses specifically on the deterioration of cognitive abilities.

diminished cognitive function

Emphasizes a reduction in the effectiveness of cognitive processes.

reduced mental capacity

Highlights a decrease in overall mental ability.

compromised mental abilities

Suggests that mental abilities are weakened or vulnerable.

affected cognitive performance

Indicates a negative impact on how well someone performs cognitive tasks.

deteriorating mental state

Focuses on the worsening condition of one's mental health.

mental deficit

A lack of mental ability or function.

intellectual disability

A significant limitation in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior.

altered mental status

Indicates a change from a normal mental state, often due to medical conditions.

FAQs

How can I use "impaired mental function" in a sentence?

You can use "impaired mental function" to describe a state where someone's cognitive abilities are diminished. For example, "The patient exhibited "impaired mental function" following the head trauma".

What are some alternatives to "impaired mental function"?

Alternatives include "cognitive decline", "reduced mental capacity", or "cognitive impairment", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "impaired mental function" or "cognitive dysfunction"?

"Impaired mental function" and "cognitive dysfunction" are similar. "Cognitive dysfunction" might be slightly more technical, while "impaired mental function" is generally more accessible and easier to understand for a broader audience.

What are the common causes of "impaired mental function"?

"Impaired mental function" can be caused by various factors, including aging, neurological disorders, head injuries, substance abuse, and certain medical conditions. The underlying cause often determines the specific type and severity of the impairment.