What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
disability
Example
The new building has ramps and elevators to accommodate people with disabilities. [disabilities: plural noun]
Example
She was born with a disability that affects her mobility. [disability: singular noun]
handicap
Example
His hearing impairment is a handicap in his job as a phone operator. [handicap: noun]
Example
The team gave the opponent a handicap to make the game more fair. [handicap: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Disability is more commonly used than handicap in official and legal contexts, as well as in everyday language. Handicap is more commonly used in the context of sports or competition.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between disability and handicap?
Disability is generally considered a more formal and respectful term, while handicap is more informal and can have negative connotations in some contexts.
