Disabled vs. Disable — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Maham Liaqat — Updated on April 22, 2024
"Disabled" is an adjective describing a lack of ability, often due to a condition, while "disable" is a verb meaning to make something unable to function.
Difference Between Disabled and Disable
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Disabled" refers to the state or condition of having a physical or mental impairment that limits major life activities, whereas "disable" involves the action of making something ineffective or inoperative.
In context, a person or device may be described as "disabled" if they cannot perform certain functions, while the verb "disable" is used when someone actively causes this state.
The term "disabled" is used to denote a permanent or long-term incapacity, on the other hand, "disable" could be temporary, as it describes an action.
When using "disabled," it typically relates to individuals, facilities, or systems permanently impaired, whereas "disable" can be applied in various scenarios, including software settings or disabling a vehicle.
"Disabled" often requires adaptive measures or accommodations to manage the impairment, whereas actions to "disable" something can be as simple as flipping a switch or more complex like programming.
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Comparison Chart
Part of Speech
Adjective
Verb
Function
Describes a state
Describes an action
Duration
Usually permanent or chronic
Can be temporary
Application
People, facilities, systems
Devices, functions, features
Example
A disabled vehicle
To disable an alarm
Compare with Definitions
Disabled
In general use, implies limitation.
Disabled access is available through the rear entrance.
Disable
To turn off features temporarily.
Disable your location settings while using the app.
Disabled
Used in computing to refer to inactive features.
The account has been disabled due to inactivity.
Disable
Verb meaning to make ineffective.
Disable the software before installation.
Disabled
Adjective describing someone legally recognized as unable to engage fully in normal activities.
The building was accessible to disabled visitors.
Disable
To legally minimize capability.
The court order will disable the company's claim to this property.
Disabled
Refers to items not functioning.
The elevator was temporarily disabled.
Disable
To prevent from functioning in a normal way.
He disabled the alarm system.
Disabled
In sports.refers to athletes with impairments.
The disabled athletes competed in the Paralympics.
Disable
To make unfit for use.
The virus is known to disable computers.
Disabled
Having become or having been rendered inoperative
A disabled vehicle.
Disable
To deprive of capability or effectiveness, especially to impair the physical abilities of.
Disabled
Having a disability
A disabled veteran.
Disable
(Law) To render legally incapable of performing an act.
Disabled
(used with a pl. verb) People with physical or mental impairments, considered as a group. rights of the disabled.
Disable
(transitive) To render unable; to take away an ability of, as by crippling.
Disabled
Made incapable of use or action.
Disable
To impair the physical or mental abilities of; to cause a serious, permanent injury.
Falling off the horse disabled him.
Disabled
Having a disability.
Disable
To deactivate, to make inoperational (especially of a function of an electronic or mechanical device).
The pilot had to disable the autopilot of his airplane.
Disabled
(legal) Legally disqualified.
Disable
(obsolete) Lacking ability; unable.
Disabled
(nonstandard) One who is disabled. often used collectively as the disabled, but sometimes also singular
Disable
Lacking ability; unable.
Disabled
Simple past tense and past participle of disable
Disable
To render unable or incapable; to destroy the force, vigor, or power of action of; to deprive of competent physical or intellectual power; to incapacitate; to disqualify; to make incompetent or unfit for service; to impair.
A Christian's life is a perpetual exercise, a wrestling and warfare, for which sensual pleasure disables him.
And had performed it, if my known offenseHad not disabled me.
I have disabled mine estate.
Disabled
Injured so as to be unable to function; as, disabled veterans.
Disable
To deprive of legal right or qualification; to render legally incapable.
An attainder of the ancestor corrupts the blood, and disables his children to inherit.
Disabled
Unable to function at normal capacity.
Disable
To deprive of that which gives value or estimation; to declare lacking in competency; to disparage; to undervalue.
Disabled
People who are crippled or otherwise physically handicapped;
Technology to help the elderly and the disabled
Disable
Make unable to perform a certain action;
Disable this command on your computer
Disabled
Incapacitated by injury or illness
Disable
Injure permanently;
He was disabled in a car accident
Disabled
So badly injured as to be unable to continue;
Disabled veterans
Common Curiosities
What is the difference between "disabled" and "handicapped"?
"Disabled" is the preferred modern term, focusing on the individual's impairments, while "handicapped" is considered outdated and less sensitive, often implying a disadvantage caused by society or the environment.
What guidelines should be followed when referring to someone as "disabled"?
It is recommended to use person-first language (e.g., "person with a disability") or identity-first language if preferred by the individual (e.g., "disabled person"), emphasizing respect and dignity.
Can "disable" be used in reference to people?
While "disable" is technically applicable to people, it is often viewed as inappropriate or insensitive. The term is better suited to objects or functions.
How do laws protect disabled individuals?
Laws such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in the U.S. protect disabled individuals from discrimination in employment, education, and access to public services.
What are common synonyms for "disabled"?
Common synonyms include "impaired," "handicapped" (less preferred), and "challenged."
What are common synonyms for "disable"?
Synonyms for "disable" include "deactivate," "disengage," "neutralize," and "incapacitate."
What are the ethical considerations in using "disabled"?
Ethical considerations include using language that respects and values individuals with disabilities, avoiding pejorative or diminishing expressions.
Can software be "disabled"?
Yes, software or software features can be disabled, meaning they are turned off or made inactive temporarily or permanently.
Is "disable" only applicable to technology?
While commonly used in technology, "disable" can also refer to actions that make any system, mechanism, or process inoperative, such as disabling a car or a security system.
What are practical ways to "disable" a device for security?
Practical methods include using software options to disable functions, physically disconnecting the device, or employing security settings to restrict access.
What impact does disabling an account on social media have?
Disabling a social media account makes it inactive and usually invisible to other users, preventing any interaction or visibility of the account’s content until reactivated.
How does the medical community define "disabled"?
The medical community may define "disabled" based on criteria that include the extent of physical or mental impairments that limit one's ability to perform daily activities.
How do educational institutions accommodate disabled students?
Institutions may provide accommodations such as modified coursework, assistive technologies, physical accessibility improvements, and specialized support services.
What does it mean for a law to be "disabled"?
In a metaphorical sense, if a law is described as "disabled," it implies that it is rendered ineffective or is not being enforced.
What is the process to officially recognize someone as "disabled"?
Official recognition usually involves medical assessment and documentation, followed by an evaluation of how the impairment affects daily life activities, often for purposes of receiving benefits or accommodations.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
