differently abled


differently abled

adj. Physically or mentally disabled.Usage Note: The term differently abled is sometimes used as a substitute for disabled or handicapped. Differently abled emphasizes the fact that many people with disabilities are quite capable of accomplishing a particular task or performing a particular function, only in a manner that is different from or takes more time than that of people without the disability. On the other hand, differently abled is often criticized as an awkward euphemism and in some cases may be taken as offensively condescending by disabled people themselves. Like challenged, it is used most frequently in academic, government, and social service environments; its use outside those contexts may be problematic.