mentally retarded

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The term "mentally retarded" is an outdated and considered offensive way to describe individuals with intellectual disabilities. It was used in the past to refer to people who have below-average cognitive abilities, which can affect their learning, problem-solving, and overall functioning in society.

Explanation:

1. Definition: It refers to people who have significant limitations in both intellectual functioning (like learning and reasoning) and in adaptive behavior (skills needed for daily living).
2. Usage Instructions: This term is no longer commonly used because it can be hurtful and disrespectful. Instead, more appropriate terms like "intellectual disability" or "developmental disability" are recommended.

Example:

• Outdated Usage: "He started a school for the mentally retarded."
• Modern Usage: "He started a school for children with intellectual disabilities."

Advanced Usage:

In academic or professional settings, you might encounter terms like "cognitive impairment" or "developmental delay," which are used to describe similar conditions but in a more respectful and precise way.

Word Variants:

• Intellectual Disability: This is the preferred term today. It describes a broader range of cognitive challenges.
• Cognitive Impairment: This term can refer to difficulties in understanding, thinking, and remembering.

Different Meanings:

While "retarded" can also mean "delayed" in a general sense (like a delayed train), it is important not to use it to describe people as it can be considered offensive.

Synonyms:

• Intellectual disability
• Developmental disability
• Cognitive impairment

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

There aren’t specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to this term. However, it is important to approach discussions about disabilities with sensitivity.

Summary:

The term "mentally retarded" is no longer acceptable.

Academic

Noun

1. people collectively who are mentally retarded
   • he started a school for the retarded

Synonyms

• retarded
• developmentally challenged