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Hard of hearing Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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hard of hearing

[ˈhɑːrd əv ˈhɪərɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Phrase

medical

Having a reduced ability to hear sounds, especially speech. It is often associated with aging or exposure to loud noises.

Synonyms

auditory challenged, deaf, hearing-impaired.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
hard of hearing

Typically used to describe someone who has partial hearing loss but may use hearing aids or other support to enhance their hearing ability.

  • My grandfather is hard of hearing, so we installed special equipment in the house for him.
  • She is hard of hearing, but she can still enjoy conversations with some adjustments.
hearing-impaired

Previously common but now often considered outdated or insensitive. Describes individuals with any level of hearing loss. Its usage has declined in favor of more inclusive terms.

  • The hearing-impaired members of the group use sign language to communicate.
  • Hearing-impaired services are available at the concert.
deaf

Refers to a person who has little to no hearing ability. It can either be a medical description or an identifier within the Deaf community, which often has its own culture and language (such as American Sign Language - ASL).

  • She was born deaf and communicates primarily through sign language.
  • Deaf culture has a rich history and its own unique traditions.
auditory challenged

A more modern, politically correct term used to describe someone with hearing difficulties. It is less commonly used in everyday conversation.

  • The school has specialized classes for auditory challenged students.
  • He prefers the term auditory challenged over hearing-impaired.

Examples of usage

  • She has been hard of hearing since birth.
  • The elderly man is hard of hearing and wears a hearing aid.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'hard of hearing'

The phrase 'hard of hearing' has been in use since the mid-19th century to describe individuals with a partial loss of hearing. It emphasizes the difficulty in hearing rather than complete deafness. The term highlights the importance of understanding and accommodating individuals with hearing impairments in society.