Synonyms for
Handicap
Definition
a physical or mental disability that limits a person's ability to perform a certain task or activity
Synonyms & similar words
disablement
balk
hamper
hinderance
disability
disable
invalid
baulk
incapacitate
deterrent
hinder
impediment
hindrance
check
impairment
disability
impairment
limitation
hindrance
obstacle
difficulty
drawback
disadvantage
defect
weakness
infirmity
deformity
abnormality
disfigurement
injury
illness
condition
syndrome
disease
disorder
Synonyms by register
Formal
Literary
Antonyms
Common collocations
- major handicap
- physical handicap
- severe handicap
- career handicap
- learning handicap
- overcome a handicap
- suffering from a handicap
- impose a handicap
Word family
Usage note
The term 'handicap' is often considered offensive when referring to people with disabilities. It is preferable to use terms like 'disability' or 'person with a disability'. In sports, it refers to a system of balancing competitors' chances.
Example sentences
- His handicap didn't stop him from playing basketball.
- She has a handicap parking permit for her car.
- The new technology helps people with disabilities overcome their handicaps.
- Her mental handicap limits her ability to learn new skills.
- Employers should not discriminate against job applicants with handicaps.
Quotes
"The only disability in life is a bad attitude." - Scott Hamilton
"Inclusion is not bringing people into what already exists; it's making a new space, a better space for everyone." - George Dei
"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision." - Helen Keller