| Kenneth G. Wilson (1923–). The Columbia Guide to Standard American English. 1993. |
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| differently abled |
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| is one of many euphemisms recently put into use to avoid suggesting that people with physical or other disabilities or limitations are unable to participate fully in all aspects of human affairs. Alas, changing the name does not change the referent itself, as the quick casting aside of older euphemisms such as disabled and disadvantaged demonstrates. It is unclear whether more is gained or lost by these continuing efforts at making language lead the way in reforming situations that ultimately must first themselves be changed, but we seem determined to try. Quite possibly, differently abled will yield to another euphemism eventually. Some usage matters have a special poignance. Compare CRIPPLE; EUPHEMISMS; POLITICALLY CORRECT; UNDERPRIVILEGED. | 1 |
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| | | The Columbia Guide to Standard American English. Copyright © 1993 Columbia University Press. |
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