Disability Rights Vocabulary

noun a person who is partially or totally unable to use one or more limbs

verb cause someone to become unable to move or walk properly

• The accident left him permanently crippled and unable to walk without assistance.
• She was worried that her injury would cripple her chances of playing in the upcoming game.
• I heard that new policy is going to cripple our ability to get things done efficiently.
• The lack of funding could cripple the project before it even gets off the ground.

noun a physical or mental disability or disadvantage

verb to put at a disadvantage

• The new building has ramps and elevators to accommodate individuals with physical handicaps.
• My uncle has a handicap parking pass so we can park closer to the entrance.
• Don't let your fear of failure be a handicap in pursuing your dreams.
• Her lack of experience was a handicap when applying for the job.

noun a physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities

• The patient's impairment of motor skills was evident during the physical examination.
• She struggled with her impairment of vision while trying to read the small print.
• His impairment from last night's party left him feeling groggy and disoriented.
• The company's financial impairment was a result of poor decision-making by the management.

noun a mark of disgrace or infamy; a stain or reproach, as on one's reputation

verb not applicable

adjective not applicable

adverb not applicable

pronoun not applicable

preposition not applicable

conjunction not applicable

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• The stigma surrounding mental health issues can prevent individuals from seeking help.
• There shouldn't be any stigma attached to asking for help when you need it.
• Don't let the stigma get to you, just do what's best for your mental health.
• The stigma acted like a heavy weight, holding her back from being her true self.

adjective a term used to describe discrimination, prejudice, or bias against individuals with disabilities

• The use of ableist language in professional settings is not acceptable.
• Don't make ableist jokes, it's not cool.
• Using ableist terms is just ignorant.
• Her attitude towards people with disabilities is deeply ableist.

noun the state or quality of being accessible; the ability to be easily reached or entered

• The accessibleness of the new building was carefully considered during the design phase.
• I really appreciate the accessibleness of this website, it makes finding information so much easier.
• The accessibleness of the park is off the charts, it's so easy to get around.
• The accessibleness of her emotions made it easy for others to connect with her.

adverb a word or phrase that modifies or qualifies an adjective, verb, or other adverb, expressing manner, place, time, or degree

• The new library was designed to be accessibly for people with disabilities.
• The store is located in a very accessibly area, making it easy to get to.
• The website is super accessibly, I found everything I needed right away.
• The author's writing style is very accessibly, making complex ideas easy to understand.