intellectual disability

USAGE SUMMARY

'intellectual disability' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
Example sentence: John was born with an intellectual disability, so he needs additional support with his schoolwork.

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Intellectual disability is also common.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The term intellectual disability is preferred.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Judy has an intellectual disability.

The Guardian - Opinion

Setting: School for children with intellectual disability.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Intellectual Disability (mental retardation) and psychiatric disorders.

Stanford University

Intellectual disability (ID) disorders are genetically and phenotypically extremely heterogeneous.

The American Journal of Human Genetics

Four individuals with intellectual disability participated in this study.

Research in Developmental Disabilities

Participants were 186 individuals with an intellectual disability.

Research in Developmental Disabilities

For services to People with an Intellectual Disability.

The Guardian

("Intellectual disability" has replaced "mental retardation" as the favored term).

The New Yorker

Intellectual disability and psychiatric disorders also may be present.

Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about individuals, use person-first language (e.g., "a person with an intellectual disability" rather than "an intellectually disabled person") to emphasize their individuality.

Common error

Avoid using the term "mental retardation", which is now considered offensive. "Intellectual disability" is the preferred and respectful term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "intellectual disability" functions as a noun phrase, serving to identify and categorize a specific condition characterized by significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Ludwig examples confirm its use in defining conditions and describing individuals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

25%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "intellectual disability" is a widely used and grammatically correct term for describing limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears frequently in diverse fields, particularly science, news, and academia. When using this term, remember to prioritize person-first language. Outdated terms like "mental retardation" should be avoided. Consider alternatives such as "cognitive impairment" or "developmental disability" depending on the specific context. Overall, "intellectual disability" serves as an essential and respectful term in communication and professional discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual impairment

Uses 'impairment' instead of 'disability', suggesting a functional reduction.

cognitive impairment

Focuses on the cognitive aspects of the disability, rather than the broader scope.

cognitive developmental delay

More specific, focusing on delayed cognitive development.

developmental disability

Emphasizes the developmental aspect of the disability, applicable when the condition arises during development.

reduced cognitive function

Highlights the diminished capacity of cognitive processes.

mental retardation

An older term, now largely replaced by "intellectual disability" due to its negative connotations.

intellectual challenge

Emphasizes the challenges faced by individuals with intellectual disabilities, framing it in a more positive light.

cognitive deficit

Highlights specific cognitive shortcomings or limitations.

learning disability

Focuses specifically on difficulties in learning processes and academic skills.

neurodevelopmental disorder

A broader term encompassing various conditions affecting brain development and function.

FAQs

What is the difference between "intellectual disability" and "learning disability"?

"Intellectual disability" refers to significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, while a "learning disability" affects specific academic skills like reading or math, without necessarily impacting overall intellectual functioning.

How is "intellectual disability" diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves standardized tests of intellectual functioning (IQ tests) and adaptive behavior assessments. These assessments evaluate skills needed for everyday living.

What are some common causes of "intellectual disability"?

Causes can include genetic conditions (like Down syndrome), prenatal factors (such as alcohol exposure), perinatal factors (like birth asphyxia), and postnatal factors (like brain injury).

What support services are available for individuals with "intellectual disability"?

Support services can include special education, vocational training, residential services, and community-based support to promote independence and inclusion.