learning disability

USAGE SUMMARY

"learning disability" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It refers to a condition that affects a person's ability to acquire and use skills in specific areas, such as reading, writing, or math. You can use the phrase "learning disability" when discussing someone's education or academic abilities, or when describing a person's specific challenges or struggles in certain subjects or tasks. Example: Sarah's learning disability in math makes it difficult for her to comprehend and apply complex equations. She receives extra support in her math class to help her overcome this challenge.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I think I had some... learning disability.

Independent

Practiced speech and learning disability therapy until 2003.

The New York Times

Gary Bourlet is a co-founder of Learning Disability England.

The Guardian

For-profit providers and charities dominate the learning disability sector.

The Guardian

About 150,000 adults in England receive learning disability services.

The Guardian

"Learning Disability Week is the perfect opportunity to challenge this.

Independent

McCarthy believes domestic violence services must become more aware of learning disability while learning disability services must appreciate the risk for abuse within relationships.

The Guardian

"As a child he was classified as having a learning disability, but he rose above it.

The New York Times

At first many staff could not recognise learning disability, let alone deal with it.

The Guardian

For many, having a learning disability means getting a job is nothing more than a dream.

The Guardian

She even enlisted the help of a lawyer who specializes in learning disability cases.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use person-first language (e.g., "a person with a learning disability" rather than "a learning-disabled person") to emphasize the individual's humanity.

Common error

Refrain from using outdated or offensive terms like "retarded" or "mentally deficient" when discussing "learning disabilities". These terms are insensitive and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "learning disability" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object in a sentence. Ludwig confirms this usage with numerous examples where it describes a specific condition affecting learning abilities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "learning disability" is a commonly used and grammatically correct term that identifies a specific type of cognitive or neurological condition impacting a person's ability to learn. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase appears frequently in news media, scientific literature, and formal business contexts. While other terms like "learning difficulty" or "learning disorder" can be used, "learning disability" remains a widely accepted descriptor. When discussing individuals with a "learning disability", it's crucial to use respectful and person-first language, focusing on their strengths and capabilities while avoiding stigmatizing terms.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

learning difficulty

This term is a more general and widely understood alternative.

learning disorder

This phrase emphasizes the medical or clinical aspect of the condition.

specific learning impairment

This highlights that the impairment is limited to particular areas of learning.

neurodevelopmental disorder

This option broadens the scope to include other neurological developmental issues that affect learning.

cognitive disability

This term refers to a broader range of impairments affecting cognitive functions, which may impact learning.

academic challenge

This is a less clinical and more approachable way to describe learning difficulties.

intellectual disability

This phrase denotes a more significant limitation in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, impacting learning.

developmental delay

This term signifies that a child is developing slower than their peers, potentially affecting learning.

reading disorder

This refers specifically to difficulties in reading, a common manifestation of learning disabilities.

dyslexia

This term identifies the specific learning disability related to reading and language processing.

FAQs

What are some common signs of a "learning disability"?

Common signs include difficulty with reading, writing, math, memory, attention, and organization. These challenges can manifest differently in each individual.

How is a "learning disability" diagnosed?

Diagnosis typically involves a comprehensive assessment by qualified professionals, such as educational psychologists or special education teachers. Assessments often include standardized tests, observations, and interviews.

What support is available for individuals with a "learning disability"?

Support can include individualized education programs (IEPs), tutoring, assistive technology, and specialized instruction. Early intervention is crucial for maximizing potential.

What's the difference between a "learning disability" and "intellectual disability"?

A "learning disability" affects specific academic skills, while "intellectual disability" involves broader limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. Individuals with a "learning disability" often have average or above-average intelligence.