Handicap vs. Handicapped: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sawaira Riaz || Published on November 1, 2023
"Handicap" is a circumstance that makes progress or success difficult, while "handicapped" refers to a person who has a disability that significantly restricts function.
Key Differences
"Handicap" is a term that can refer to a situation or condition that makes it more difficult for someone to do something, while "handicapped" is an adjective used to describe a person who has a physical or mental disability. For instance, a "handicap" in golf means a player's skill level, which affects their score, whereas a "handicapped" person might have difficulty with certain activities due to their disability.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
The word "handicap" can also mean an advantage or restriction placed on someone or something in order to equalize chances. For example, in horse racing, a stronger horse might be given a weight "handicap" to slow it down. In contrast, "handicapped" parking spaces are reserved for individuals with disabilities to provide closer access to a building.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
In sports, a "handicap" allows players of different skill levels to compete against each other on more equal terms. However, being "handicapped," in a general sense, refers to having some type of disability or impairment, either physical or mental, that affects one's ability to perform certain tasks.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
When discussing challenges or disadvantages in a broader context, "handicap" can be used. For instance, a company might face a "handicap" due to market conditions. However, the term "handicapped" is specifically used in reference to individuals with disabilities, and it's important to note that language around disabilities has evolved, with a preference for person-first language: "person with a disability" instead of "handicapped."
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
The concept of a "handicap" exists in various fields and refers to any factor that causes a marked disadvantage. Conversely, "handicapped" is a term that has historically been used to describe individuals with disabilities but is now seen as outdated and sometimes offensive, with preferences moving toward more respectful terminology.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Usage Context
Broad (sports, business, etc.)
Specifically refers to individuals with disabilities
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Modern Acceptance
Still widely used
Becoming outdated; can be viewed as insensitive
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Preferred Term
Remains the same
"Person with a disability" or "disabled person"
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
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Handicap and Handicapped Definitions
Handicap
A situation that makes it difficult for someone to do something.
Lack of funding is a major handicap for our project.
Janet White
Oct 21, 2023
Handicapped
Pertaining to the condition of having a disability or impairment.
The building offers handicapped parking spots closer to the entrance.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Handicap
A condition that markedly restricts a person's ability to function physically, mentally, or socially.
Accessible ramps remove the handicap faced by individuals in wheelchairs.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Handicapped
Requiring special facilities or accommodations due to a disability.
The event was fully accessible to handicapped attendees.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Handicap
In sports, a system used to equalize the chances of competitors.
Her golf handicap has improved this season.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
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Handicapped
Having a physical or mental condition that limits movements, senses, or activities.
Handicapped individuals need better accessibility in public transportation.
Sara Rehman
Oct 21, 2023
Handicap
A disadvantage imposed on a superior competitor in sports.
He's racing with a handicap, carrying extra weight.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Handicapped
Especially unable or limited due to a physical or mental impairment.
The handicapped athlete competed in the Paralympic Games.
Harlon Moss
Oct 21, 2023
Handicap
Something that severely limits functionality or operation.
The small budget was a handicap in their film production.
Sara Rehman
Oct 21, 2023
Handicapped
Physically or mentally disabled
A pool equipped for handicapped swimmers.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
A race or contest in which contestants are given advantages or compensations to equalize the chances of winning.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicapped
Intended for people who have a disability
A handicapped parking space.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicapped
People who have a disability considered as a group. Often used with the.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Usage Problem A physical or mental disability. See Usage Note at handicapped.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicapped
Suffering from a handicap (in senses 4 or 5); disabled; at a disadvantage.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Something that prevents, hampers, or hinders.
Age is often a handicap.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
(sports) An allowance of a certain amount of time or distance in starting, granted in a race (or other contest of skill) to the competitor possessing disadvantages; or an additional weight or other hindrance imposed upon the one possessing advantages, in order to equalize, as much as possible, the chances of success.
The older boy won, even though his opponent had been granted a handicap of five meters.
A handicap in chess often involves removal of the queen's rook.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicapped
Restricted in ability or function due to a disability.
Handicapped workers are protected under anti-discrimination laws.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 21, 2023
Handicap
(sometimes considered offensive) The disadvantage itself, in particular physical or mental disadvantages of people.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
A race or similar contest in which there is an allowance of time, distance, weight, or other advantage, to equalize the chances of the competitors.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
To place at disadvantage.
The candidate was handicapped by her lack of experience.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
To estimate betting odds.
Grandpa Andy would buy the racing form the day ahead of time so he could handicap the race before he even arrived at the track.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
An allowance of a certain amount of time or distance in starting, granted in a race to the competitor possessing inferior advantages; or an additional weight or other hindrance imposed upon the one possessing superior advantages, in order to equalize, as much as possible, the chances of success; as, the handicap was five seconds, or ten pounds, and the like.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
A race, for horses or men, or any contest of agility, strength, or skill, in which there is an allowance of time, distance, weight, or other advantage, to equalize the chances of the competitors.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
A physical or mental disability of the body which makes normal human activities more difficult or impossible; as, his deformed leg was a major handicap in walking.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Any disadvantage that makes an activity more difficult or impossible; as, insufficient capital was a big handicap in competing against Microsoft.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
To encumber with a handicap in any contest; hence, in general, to place at disadvantage; as, the candidate was heavily handicapped.
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
The condition of being unable to perform as a consequence of physical or mental unfitness;
Reading disability
Hearing impairment
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Something immaterial that interferes with or delays action or progress
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Attempt to forecast the winner (especially in a horse race) and assign odds for or against a contestant
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
Handicap
Put at a disadvantage;
The brace I have to wear is hindering my movements
Sawaira Riaz
Oct 13, 2023
FAQs
Are "handicap" and "handicapped" interchangeable?
No, "handicap" is a noun referring to a disadvantage, while "handicapped" is an adjective describing a person with a disability.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Is "handicapped" considered offensive?
It can be, as it reduces a person to their disability. Preferred terms are "person with a disability" or "disabled person."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Why is "handicapped" viewed as outdated?
Language evolves, and "handicapped" can imply incapability or limitation, which is not how many wish to define people with disabilities.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Why was "handicapped" used historically?
It came from a term referring to people begging with a "cap in hand" and later generalized to mean disabilities.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Does "handicap" only refer to physical disabilities?
No, it can refer to any disadvantage, including non-disability-related ones.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Can "handicap" refer to situations outside of disabilities?
Yes, it's used broadly for any significant disadvantage or challenge.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Are there laws about "handicap" access?
Yes, many countries have laws to ensure accessibility for people with disabilities.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Is it okay to use "handicapped" to describe challenges in business or projects?
It's better to use "challenges," "setbacks," or "obstacles" in these contexts.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Does "handicap" have a specific meaning in golf?
Yes, it's a numerical measure of a player's potential ability.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Can buildings be "handicapped accessible"?
Yes, though "accessible" is the preferred term.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Is "handicap" still used in sports?
Yes, it's a system to equalize players' or teams' chances of winning.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
What's an alternative to saying "handicapped parking"?
"Accessible parking" or "disabled parking" is often preferred.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Are schools required to accommodate students with "handicaps"?
Yes, there are laws like the IDEA in the U.S. that ensure educational rights and supports.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Does "handicap" imply permanence?
Not necessarily. It can refer to any disadvantage, temporary or permanent.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
How has language changed regarding disabilities?
There's a stronger emphasis now on person-first language, emphasizing the person over their disability.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Should I correct someone using "handicapped"?
You can politely inform them of more respectful language, like "person with a disability."
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Is "handicap" used in psychological contexts?
Less frequently now. Specific terms describing the condition or challenge are preferred.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
Are "handicapped" signs universal?
The International Symbol of Access (wheelchair symbol) is widely recognized.
Janet White
Nov 01, 2023
Can a "handicap" be self-imposed?
In broader usage, yes, people can create their own handicaps through beliefs or actions.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
Is "mental handicap" an appropriate term?
It's often seen as insensitive. Terms like "intellectual disability" or "cognitive impairment" are preferred.
Sawaira Riaz
Nov 01, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sawaira RiazSawaira is a dedicated content editor at difference.wiki, where she meticulously refines articles to ensure clarity and accuracy. With a keen eye for detail, she upholds the site's commitment to delivering insightful and precise content.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
