Reading Theme:
Handicapped: Definition, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：disabled (handicapped)
handicapped
/ˈhændɪkæpt/
adj.
Having a physical or mental condition that makes everyday activities much harder than for most people.
disabled
➕
/dɪsˈeɪbld/
adj.
Describes a person who has a condition (physical or mental) that significantly limits daily activities.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From 'handicap', originally from 'hand in cap' game, where players put stakes in a cap.
💡 Mnemonic
Think of a 'hand' holding a 'cap' to level the playing field for those with challenges.
📖 Example
The new building has buttons at a lower height so that handicapped people in wheelchairs can easily reach them.
The new building has buttons at a lower height so that handicapped people in wheelchairs can easily reach them.
🔗 Collocations
handicapped parking – A parking space reserved for disabled drivers.
handicapped accessible – Designed to be easily used by people with disabilities.
handicapped children – Children with physical or mental disabilities.
🔄 Synonyms
disabled (adj.) – Having a physical or mental impairment.
impaired (adj.) – Weakened or damaged, typically in function.
challenged (adj.) – Euphemism for having a disability.
🚫 Antonyms
able-bodied (adj.) – Physically healthy and strong.
unimpaired (adj.) – Not weakened or damaged.
fit (adj.) – In good health.
🌱 Derivatives
handicap (n.) – A condition that limits abilities.
handicapping (adj.) – Relating to a system of giving advantages.
handicapper (n.) – A person who assigns handicaps.
📖 Cultural Story
Originated in 17th-century England from a game called 'hand in cap', used in horse racing to equalize chances. Later applied to disabilities.
Meaning 2：given a handicap (handicapped)
handicapped
/ˈhændɪkæpt/
adj.
In sports or games, giving a weaker player or team some advantage to make the competition more equal and interesting.
given a handicap
➕
/ˈɡɪvən ə ˈhændɪkæp/
adj.
Refers to a system in sports where a weaker competitor is given an advantage to make the contest fair.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
In our friendly golf match, he gave me a handicapped score of two strokes to make it fair since he's a much better player.
In our friendly golf match, he gave me a handicapped score of two strokes to make it fair since he's a much better player.
🔗 Collocations
handicapped golf – Golf played with a handicap system.
handicapped score – A score adjusted by handicap.
handicapped race – A race where slower competitors get a head start.
🔄 Synonyms
advantaged (adj.) – Given a competitive advantage.
compensated (adj.) – Given something to offset a disadvantage.
equalized (adj.) – Made equal.
🚫 Antonyms
scratch (adj.) – Not having a handicap (in golf).
penalized (adj.) – Given a penalty or disadvantage.
unadjusted (adj.) – Not adjusted by handicap.
🌱 Derivatives
handicap (n.) – The advantage given in a competition.
handicapper (n.) – Person who calculates handicaps.
handicapping (n.) – The process of assigning handicaps.
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