Handicaps Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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handicaps
[หhandษชkรฆps ]
Definitions
in sports
Physical or mental disadvantages that affect a person's ability to perform certain tasks, especially in sports.
Synonyms
challenges, disabilities, limitations.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| handicaps |
Often used in sports or competitions to describe a disadvantage that makes success more difficult. May have negative connotations when used in other contexts.
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| disabilities |
Refers to physical or mental conditions that limit a person's ability to perform certain activities or interact with the world around them. This term is often used in medical or official contexts and is generally neutral but needs to be used sensitively.
|
| limitations |
Describes restrictions or constraints that prevent someone from reaching their full potential or performing certain actions. Can be used in both personal and professional contexts and generally has a neutral connotation.
|
| challenges |
Used to describe difficult tasks or problems that require effort and determination to overcome. Generally has a positive or neutral connotation.
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Examples of usage
- The golfer overcame his handicaps to win the tournament.
- Some sports events have separate categories for athletes with handicaps.
in sports
To assign a disadvantage to a competitor in order to equalize chances of winning.
Synonyms
disadvantage, impair, penalize.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| handicaps |
This word is commonly used to describe physical or mental limitations that make certain activities more challenging. It can sometimes have a negative connotation if not used sensitively.
|
| disadvantage |
Suitable when referring to a condition or situation that makes progress or success more difficult. It is generally neutral but can seem negative depending on context.
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| penalize |
Frequently used in legal, educational, or competitive contexts to indicate punishment or a restrictive measure. Often has a negative connotation.
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| impair |
Commonly used in medical or legal contexts to describe something that weakens or damages. Often used to describe the negative effects on skills or functions.
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Examples of usage
- The race committee decided to handicap the fastest runner by making him start last.
- Handicapping is a common practice in horse racing.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Social Perspectives
- Public attitudes towards disabilities and handicaps have shifted dramatically, emphasizing inclusion rather than segregation.
- The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 marked a significant step in the rights of individuals with handicaps in the workplace and public spaces.
- Organizations worldwide advocate for the empowerment of those with disabilities, promoting their capabilities and achievements.
Science
- Research shows that individuals with handicaps can often develop strong problem-solving skills and creativity due to their unique challenges.
- Studies indicate that inclusive environments not only benefit those with handicaps but enhance overall productivity and team spirit.
- Neurodiversity highlights that different neurological conditions are variations of human experience, not deficits.
Pop Culture
- Movies like 'A Beautiful Mind' and 'The Theory of Everything' showcase the triumphs of individuals with handicaps, inspiring many.
- Athletic competitions like the Paralympics have transformed perceptions, illustrating that physical challenges can lead to extraordinary achievements.
- Fictional characters with handicaps often serve as powerful symbols of resilience, impacting cultural narratives around disability.
Literature
- Literature often explores the experiences of characters with handicaps, providing insight into the challenges and triumphs they face.
- Authors like Helen Keller and Mark Twain have shed light on the realities of living with disabilities through their writings.
- Analyses of classic novels reveal themes of overcoming adversity, where handicaps can serve as metaphors for personal growth.
Origin of 'handicaps'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'handicap' originated in the 17th century, linked to a game where players would negotiate terms to ensure fairness.
- Originally used in reference to a betting game, it slowly evolved to describe any disadvantage in various contexts.
- The term has historical ties to the phrase 'cap in hand,' which reflected those seeking alms.
The term 'handicap' originated in the late 17th century from the phrase 'hand in cap', which referred to a method of starting a race with each participant putting a hand in a cap to draw lots determining the conditions of the race. Over time, the term evolved to encompass both physical and mental disadvantages as well as the practice of assigning disadvantages in sports competitions.