Top 27 Slang For Challenged – Meaning & Usage

“Slang For Challenged” may sound puzzling at first, but fear not! We’ve got you covered with a curated list of the latest and most popular slang terms that will have you speaking like a pro in no time. Stay ahead of the curve and impress your friends with this handy guide to the ever-evolving world of modern language. Get ready to level up your slang game with us!

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1. Handicapped

This term refers to individuals who have a physical or mental disability that may limit their abilities or participation in certain activities. It is important to note that “handicapped” is considered outdated and is not the preferred terminology.

For instance, “The parking spot near the entrance is reserved for handicapped individuals.”
In a discussion about accessibility, someone might say, “We need to ensure that public spaces are inclusive for handicapped people.”
A person advocating for disability rights might argue, “We should focus on the abilities of handicapped individuals rather than their limitations.”

2. Special needs

This term refers to individuals who have specific requirements or challenges due to physical, mental, or emotional conditions. It is used to emphasize the unique needs of these individuals and promote inclusivity.

For example, “The school provides support and accommodations for students with special needs.”
A parent might say, “My child has special needs, so we work closely with their teachers to ensure they receive the necessary support.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, someone might argue, “All students, including those with special needs, deserve equal opportunities to learn and thrive.”

3. Differently abled

This term is used to emphasize the unique abilities and strengths of individuals with disabilities. It aims to shift the focus from limitations to the talents and skills that these individuals possess.

For instance, “Differently abled individuals often have exceptional problem-solving skills.”
In a conversation about employment, someone might say, “We need to create more opportunities for differently abled individuals to showcase their talents.”
A person advocating for inclusivity might argue, “We should celebrate the diverse talents of differently abled individuals and create an inclusive society.”

4. Intellectually disabled

This term refers to individuals who have limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. It is used to describe people with intellectual disabilities, such as Down syndrome or autism.

For example, “Intellectually disabled individuals may require additional support to navigate daily tasks.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, someone might say, “We need to provide tailored educational programs for intellectually disabled students.”
A healthcare professional might explain, “Intellectually disabled individuals may have difficulty with problem-solving, memory, and learning new skills.”

5. Developmentally delayed

This term is used to describe individuals who experience delays in reaching developmental milestones compared to their peers. It can refer to delays in physical, cognitive, language, or social-emotional development.

For instance, “Children with developmental delays may require early intervention services.”
In a discussion about child development, someone might say, “Developmentally delayed children may catch up to their peers with appropriate support and interventions.”
A parent might share, “My child has a developmental delay, and we are working with therapists to help them reach their milestones.”

6. Cognitively challenged

This term refers to individuals who have a cognitive disability or impairment that affects their intellectual functioning and adaptive skills. It is a more respectful and inclusive way to describe someone with cognitive challenges.

For example, a teacher might say, “We need to provide extra support for our cognitively challenged students.”
A parent might advocate for their child by saying, “My child is cognitively challenged, but they are capable of learning and growing.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, someone might say, “We should create more opportunities for cognitively challenged individuals to thrive.”

7. Learning disabled

This term refers to individuals who have difficulties with learning and acquiring new skills. It is used to describe individuals who may have specific learning disabilities or other challenges that impact their ability to learn in traditional ways.

For instance, a teacher might say, “We need to provide accommodations for our learning disabled students.”
A parent might discuss their child’s challenges by saying, “My child is learning disabled, but they have unique strengths and talents.”
In a conversation about educational support, someone might suggest, “We should offer more resources for learning disabled individuals to succeed.”

8. Neurodivergent

This term refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning is different from the typical or average population. It encompasses a wide range of conditions such as autism, ADHD, and other neurodevelopmental disorders.

For example, a neurodivergent individual might say, “I embrace my neurodivergent identity and the unique perspective it brings.”
A support group for neurodivergent individuals might promote acceptance by saying, “Celebrate neurodiversity and the strengths it brings.”
In a discussion about workplace inclusivity, someone might advocate for hiring neurodivergent individuals by saying, “We should prioritize neurodiversity in our hiring practices.”

9. Exceptional

This term is used to describe individuals who have exceptional abilities or talents. It recognizes that individuals with challenges may also possess unique strengths and abilities that set them apart.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Our exceptional students have a lot to offer and should be given opportunities to shine.”
A parent might express pride in their child by saying, “My child is exceptional in their artistic abilities.”
In a conversation about inclusive education, someone might argue, “We should focus on the exceptional talents of individuals rather than their challenges.”

10. Differently-abled

This term emphasizes that individuals with challenges have different abilities rather than focusing solely on their disabilities. It promotes a more positive and inclusive view of individuals with diverse abilities.

For example, a disability advocate might say, “We should recognize and celebrate the differently-abled community.”
A person discussing accessibility might say, “We need to create environments that are inclusive and accessible for all, including the differently-abled.”
In a discussion about employment opportunities, someone might argue, “We should focus on the unique strengths and abilities of differently-abled individuals.”

11. Handicapable

This term is used to describe individuals with disabilities who are capable of achieving and participating in activities, despite their challenges. It emphasizes their abilities rather than their disabilities.

For example, “She may be in a wheelchair, but she is handicapable and can accomplish anything she sets her mind to.”
In a discussion about inclusion, someone might say, “We should focus on creating an environment where all individuals, including the handicapable, can thrive.”
A parent might proudly say, “My child may have special needs, but they are fully handicapable and can lead a fulfilling life.”

12. Neuroatypical

This term refers to individuals whose neurological development and functioning differ from the norm. It is often used to describe individuals with conditions such as autism, ADHD, or other neurological differences.

For instance, “He is neuroatypical, which means he processes information and social cues differently than most people.”
In a discussion about neurodiversity, someone might say, “Neuroatypical individuals bring unique perspectives and strengths to society.”
A teacher might use the term to explain, “In my classroom, I have neurotypical and neuroatypical students, and I strive to create an inclusive learning environment for all.”

13. Special education

Special education refers to the education provided to individuals with disabilities. It includes tailored instructional strategies and support services to meet their unique learning needs.

For example, “He receives special education services to help him succeed academically.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, someone might say, “Every student deserves access to quality special education.”
A parent might advocate, “We need more resources and trained professionals in the field of special education to support our children.”

14. Cognitive impairment

Cognitive impairment refers to difficulties in cognitive functioning, such as memory, attention, problem-solving, or language skills. It can be caused by various factors, including developmental disabilities, brain injuries, or neurodegenerative disorders.

For instance, “He has a cognitive impairment that affects his ability to process information.”
In a discussion about accommodations, someone might say, “Individuals with cognitive impairments may benefit from visual aids or simplified instructions.”
A healthcare professional might explain, “Cognitive impairment can impact a person’s daily functioning and require specialized support and interventions.”

15. Exceptional needs

Exceptional needs is a term used to describe the unique requirements and support necessary for individuals with disabilities or challenges. It emphasizes that these individuals require specific accommodations and services to thrive.

For example, “She has exceptional needs and benefits from a personalized education plan.”
In a discussion about inclusive communities, someone might say, “We should strive to meet the exceptional needs of all individuals, regardless of their abilities.”
A caregiver might advocate, “It’s important to create inclusive spaces that cater to the exceptional needs of individuals with disabilities.”

16. Developmentally challenged

This term refers to individuals who have a developmental disability or delay. It is used to describe people who may require additional support or accommodations in certain areas of their life.

For example, “My cousin is developmentally challenged and attends a specialized school.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, someone might say, “It’s important to create an environment that supports the learning needs of developmentally challenged students.”
A teacher might use this term when discussing different strategies for engaging developmentally challenged students in the classroom.

17. Intellectually challenged

This term is used to describe individuals who have limitations in their intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior. It emphasizes the challenges they may face in areas such as learning, problem-solving, and social skills.

For instance, “The organization provides support services for intellectually challenged individuals.”
In a conversation about inclusive employment, someone might say, “We should focus on creating opportunities for intellectually challenged individuals to contribute to the workforce.”
A psychologist might use this term when discussing assessments and interventions for intellectually challenged individuals.

18. Learning different

This term refers to individuals who have specific difficulties in acquiring and processing information. It emphasizes that their learning style and needs may be different from the norm.

For example, “My sister is learning different and receives extra help in school.”
In a discussion about educational accommodations, someone might say, “Students who are learning disabled may benefit from specialized instruction or assistive technology.”
A teacher might use this term when discussing strategies for supporting learning different students in the classroom.

19. Neurodiverse

This term is used to describe individuals who have neurological differences or conditions that affect their cognitive and sensory processing. It highlights the diversity of brain functioning and challenges the notion of a “normal” or typical brain.

For instance, “Our company is committed to creating an inclusive and neurodiverse workforce.”
In a conversation about autism advocacy, someone might say, “We need to promote acceptance and understanding of neurodiverse individuals.”
A researcher might use this term when discussing the benefits of embracing neurodiversity in society.

20. Exceptional learners

This term refers to individuals who have unique learning needs or abilities that deviate from the typical range. It emphasizes their strengths and potential rather than focusing solely on their challenges.

For example, “Exceptional learners may require individualized education plans to support their specific needs.”
In a discussion about inclusive classrooms, someone might say, “We should celebrate the diverse strengths of differently abled students.”
A special education teacher might use this term when discussing strategies for meeting the needs of exceptional learners.

21. Differently enabled

This term emphasizes that individuals with disabilities have different abilities and strengths, rather than focusing on their limitations.

For example, “We should celebrate the differently enabled for their unique contributions.”
A person might say, “Being differently enabled doesn’t mean you can’t achieve great things.”
In a discussion on inclusivity, someone might suggest, “Let’s create a space that embraces the differently enabled.”

22. Cognitive diversity

This term refers to the range of different ways individuals perceive, interpret, and process information. It recognizes that diverse cognitive abilities can contribute to innovative problem-solving and creative thinking.

For instance, “Our team values cognitive diversity because it leads to more robust solutions.”
In a workplace discussion, someone might say, “We should prioritize hiring for cognitive diversity to foster a more inclusive culture.”
A person might argue, “Cognitive diversity is essential for driving innovation and avoiding groupthink.”

23. Neurodivergence

This term encompasses a range of conditions such as autism, ADHD, and dyslexia. It emphasizes that neurodivergent individuals have unique ways of thinking and processing information, rather than viewing them as abnormal or disordered.

For example, “We should embrace neurodivergence and create inclusive environments for individuals with different neurological profiles.”
A person might say, “Neurodivergent individuals often have valuable perspectives and strengths that should be recognized.”
In a discussion on education, someone might suggest, “We need to provide support and accommodations for neurodivergent students to thrive.”

24. Exceptional abilities

This term recognizes and highlights the exceptional talents and abilities that individuals with disabilities may possess. It focuses on their strengths rather than their limitations.

For instance, “Many individuals with disabilities have exceptional artistic abilities.”
A person might say, “Let’s celebrate the exceptional abilities of individuals with disabilities and provide them with opportunities to showcase their talents.”
In a discussion on inclusion, someone might argue, “Recognizing and valuing exceptional abilities can help break down stereotypes and promote a more inclusive society.”

25. Physically challenged

This term acknowledges that individuals with disabilities face physical challenges but also emphasizes their resilience and ability to overcome obstacles.

For example, “People who are physically challenged often develop creative solutions to navigate the world.”
A person might say, “We should focus on creating accessible environments for the physically challenged.”
In a discussion on inclusivity, someone might suggest, “Let’s ensure that our society is inclusive and accessible for the physically challenged.”

26. Cognitively impaired

This term refers to individuals who have limitations in cognitive functioning and adaptive behavior. It is a more formal and clinical term used in the field of disabilities.

For example, a doctor might say, “The patient is cognitively impaired and may require additional support.”
In a discussion about special education, a teacher might mention, “We provide individualized instruction for students who are cognitively impaired.”
A parent might ask, “What resources are available for my cognitively impaired child?”

27. Exceptionalities

This term encompasses a wide range of conditions or disabilities that require special educational or support services. It is a more inclusive and positive term used to describe individuals with diverse learning needs.

For instance, a teacher might say, “Our classroom is designed to meet the needs of students with exceptionalities.”
In a discussion about inclusive education, a advocate might argue, “All students, regardless of their exceptionalities, deserve equal access to education.”
A parent might share, “My child has exceptionalities, but they have incredible talents and strengths too.”