physical disability

USAGE SUMMARY

"physical disability" is a correct and usable term in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a physical impairment or limitation. For example, you could say: "Many people with physical disabilities use assistive devices to help them with daily activities."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Nor is her physical disability, of course.

Independent

Subsequent physical disability doubtless further strengthened them.

The Guardian

Physical disability after severe lower-extremity injury.

Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

and retired for physical disability as Lieutenant Commander.

The New York Times

The imbalance was at the core of his physical disability.

The New York Times - Sports

Ninety percent of patients had at least moderate physical disability.

Stanford University

Assist those with a physical disability in evacuating the building.

Stanford University

Healthy children whose siblings suffer from any mental or physical disability have similar experiences.

The New York Times - Science

For example, someone with a physical disability may need support to take part in social activities.

The Guardian

Those include discrimination because of age, race, sex, religion, national origin and physical disability.

The New York Times

He wrote a moving account of physical disability in You Should See Me in Pyjamas (1981).

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "physical disability", use person-first language (e.g., "a person with a physical disability" rather than "a physically disabled person") to emphasize the individual's identity rather than the disability.

Common error

Refrain from using terms like "handicapped" or "crippled", which are often considered offensive. Use respectful and contemporary language such as "person with a physical disability" or "person with a mobility impairment" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "physical disability" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves to identify and categorize a state of impaired physical function. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English, making it suitable for describing a physical impairment or limitation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Academia

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "physical disability" is a widely used and accepted phrase for describing limitations in a person's physical functioning. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's a correct and usable term, appearing frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to employ person-first language and avoid outdated or offensive terminology. Alternatives like "physical impairment" or "mobility impairment" may be suitable depending on the specific context. Remember to prioritize respectful and accurate communication when discussing "physical disability".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

physical impairment

Replaces "disability" with "impairment", focusing on the functional limitation.

bodily impairment

Similar to physical impairment, but uses "bodily" to emphasize the physical nature.

motor disability

Specifies the type of disability as related to motor function.

locomotor disability

Focuses on disability related to movement or locomotion.

mobility impairment

Emphasizes limitations in movement and mobility.

functional limitation

Highlights the limitation in performing physical functions.

physical handicap

Uses the term "handicap" which, while sometimes considered outdated, conveys a similar meaning.

musculoskeletal disability

Specifies the involvement of the musculoskeletal system.

neuromuscular disability

Indicates a disability related to the nervous system and muscles.

physical challenge

Presents the disability as a challenge to be overcome.

FAQs

How do I use "physical disability" in a sentence?

You can use "physical disability" to describe a condition that limits a person's physical functioning. For example, "Assist those with a "physical disability" in evacuating the building."

What are some alternatives to "physical disability"?

Some alternatives include "physical impairment", "mobility impairment", or "functional limitation", depending on the specific context.

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

While "handicapped" was once common, it is now often considered outdated and potentially offensive. Using ""physical disability"" or more specific terms like "mobility impairment" is generally preferred.

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

"Physical disability" refers to limitations in a person's physical functioning, while "intellectual disability" refers to limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. They are distinct types of disabilities.