Language of Disability

Words and language used to describe humans with disabilities can have a great impact. This article is a guide to inclusive disability language. Remember that people with disabilities may have varying preferences in the ways that they wish to be referred to. It is okay to ask if you are using language in an appropriate way. If someone ever corrects your language or suggests an alternative way of referring to their disability or identity, please be courteous and embrace their knowledge, choices, and perspectives.  

Avoiding Assumptions 

It is important to remember that a person with a disability may have varying levels of comfort about disclosing their disability. Do not assume that someone with a disability is comfortable sharing information about their disability or be identified as someone with a disability. If you know someone with a disability, it is okay to ask what they are comfortable with.  

Emphasizing Abilities Instead of Limitations 

Language that emphasizes a person’s ability rather than their limitations is inclusive and empowering. The following are some examples: 

Person-First Language vs. Identity-First Language 

Person-first or identity-first language refers to the way to refer to someone with a disability. People who prefer identity-first language perceive their disability as an essential part of their identity and therefore accept labels such as “deaf person” or “disabled person.” Some people with disabilities prefer person-first language because they do not want to solely be defined by their disability and recognize that they have a disability, and it is not the only dimension of their unique identity.  

Here are some additional examples of person-first and identity-first language. It is important to remember that someone may feel more comfortable with person- or identity-first language, and it is okay to ask what their preferences are or listen to the way that they might describe themselves.  

Neutral Language 

Neutral language is another way you can refer to someone with a disability or condition. Some examples of neutral language are provided in the “use” category below. Using language that portrays a person as passive or lacking in something is harmful; it is important to avoid words like victim, defective, or invalid.  

Emphasizing Accessibility Instead of the Presence of a Disability 

The word “handicapped” is an outdated term and phrases like “accessible parking” or “accessible restrooms” are more empowering and inclusive because they point to one’s ability to access rather than their inability to do something that someone who is not disabled is able to do. This ties in closely with the basic principles of Universal Design.  

Stereotypes, Euphemisms, and Offensive Language 

Phrases like “differently-abled,” “handi-capable,” or “special needs” are not considered acceptable terms and can feel condescending to a person with a disability because it points to their inability to function in some way that a person without a disability would function in the world. Eliminate these types of euphemisms, as well has offensive language like freak, crazy, cripple, psycho, imbecile, or other disrespectful language.  

The table below provides acceptable phrases to replace stereotypical phrases and language that are potentially harmful to people with disabilities.