is retarded

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is retarded" is grammatically correct but its usage is considered offensive and outdated in contemporary English.
It can be used in contexts discussing intellectual disabilities, but it is advisable to avoid it due to its derogatory connotations. Example: "The idea that he is retarded is not only incorrect but also harmful to the conversation about mental health."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

And growth is retarded.

The Economist

This guy is retarded".

The New Yorker

But now he is retarded.

The New Yorker

Above that, the defendant must prove that he is retarded.

The New York Times

She has two children: a boy, who is retarded and a girl who is deaf.

The New Yorker

He is good at taking care of people because his brother is retarded.

The New Yorker

Mr Hall's lawyers insist that he is retarded and point to a history of child abuse.

The Economist

Growth of the infant is retarded; permanent stunting may occur, and rickets-like deformities develop.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Auxin is retarding the fruit ripening.

BMC Plant Biology

She was retarded.

The New Yorker

"They were retarded," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "is retarded" due to its offensive and stigmatizing nature. Opt for more respectful and accurate language such as "has an intellectual disability" or "experiences cognitive delays".

Common error

Do not use the term "retarded" to describe a person's intellectual capabilities or to dismiss an idea as foolish. This term is considered highly offensive and perpetuates harmful stereotypes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is retarded" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, aiming to characterize someone or something as having intellectual disabilities or being slow, stupid, or delayed. However, Ludwig AI indicates that the term is now widely considered offensive and outdated.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Science

38%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is retarded" is grammatically sound but carries significant negative connotations. Ludwig AI points out that its historical use has been deeply offensive, making it unsuitable for contemporary communication. While it appears across various source types, including news, science, and encyclopedias, its presence often highlights its problematic nature. It is crucial to opt for more respectful and accurate language, such as "has an intellectual disability", "experiences cognitive delays", or other alternatives that avoid perpetuating harm and stigma. Although the frequency of use is very common, it is advisable to avoid it completely.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has an intellectual disability

Replaces the outdated and offensive term with a respectful and accurate description of a person's cognitive abilities.

experiences cognitive delays

Focuses on the developmental aspect, highlighting that progress occurs at a slower pace.

has developmental challenges

Emphasizes the difficulties faced in development, using a more sensitive and inclusive term.

is intellectually impaired

Describes a condition where intellectual functioning is diminished, avoiding harsh or stigmatizing language.

is mentally disabled

States the presence of a disability affecting mental capabilities in a straightforward manner.

is delayed in development

Highlights the aspect of delayed progress, indicating a slower rate of maturation or growth.

is not very smart

A more general way to express that someone lacks intelligence, without referencing a specific condition.

is slow in understanding

Describes a slower pace of comprehension, focusing on how someone processes information.

is foolish

Indicates a lack of good sense or judgment, suggesting actions that are unwise or silly.

is unwise

Implies poor judgment or a lack of prudence in decision-making or actions.

FAQs

What are respectful alternatives to "is retarded"?

Consider using terms like "has an intellectual disability", "experiences cognitive delays", or "has developmental challenges" to be more sensitive and accurate.

Why is it offensive to use the term "retarded"?

The term "retarded" has a history of being used to demean and stigmatize individuals with intellectual disabilities, leading to its widespread condemnation as offensive.

How can I avoid using offensive language when discussing intellectual abilities?

Focus on specific capabilities and challenges rather than using broad, stigmatizing labels. Use person-first language, such as "a person with an intellectual disability".

Is "is retarded" ever appropriate to use?

Generally, no. In modern contexts, it is best to avoid using "is retarded" due to its offensive and outdated nature. There are very few, if any, situations where using this phrase would be considered appropriate.