Word: Impairment
Part of Speech: Noun
Basic Definition:Impairment means a problem that makes something weaker or less effective. It can refer to physical or mental conditions that reduce a person’s ability to do things, like hearing or seeing.
Usage Instructions: - Use "impairment" when talking about a loss or reduction in function. - It is often used in medical or psychological contexts, but can also refer to other types of damage.
Examples: 1. "She has a hearing impairment that makes it difficult for her to follow conversations." 2. "The doctor explained that the impairment in his vision was due to age."
Advanced Usage: - In a more technical context, "impairment" can refer to a decrease in the value of an asset in business, indicating that it is worth less than it was before.
Word Variants: - Impair (verb): To make something weaker or less effective. Example: "The loud noise can impair your ability to concentrate." - Impairable (adjective): Something that can be impaired. Example: "Certain environmental factors can lead to impairable health conditions."
Different Meanings: - While "impairment" often refers to physical or mental conditions, it can also refer to any situation where something is diminished or weakened, such as an impairment in performance or quality.
Synonyms: - Disability - Weakness - Deterioration - Damage - Decline
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that use "impairment" directly, but you might hear phrases like "take a toll on" which means to negatively affect something. For example, "Stress can take a toll on your mental health."
Summary:Impairment is a noun that describes a reduction in strength or quality, often related to physical or mental abilities.