What does handicap mean?

A disadvantage that makes success or progress more difficult. To make it harder for someone to succeed. A scoring adjustment allowing players of different abilities to compete fairly.

How is handicap pronounced?

UK /ˈhændɪkæp/, US /ˈhændikæp/.

handicap

/ˈhændɪkæp/ · /ˈhændikæp/

CEFR level C1Topic SocietyWord #5951 in the learning path

不利条件；障碍

Add to today's session

Definitions

n. A disadvantage that makes success or progress more difficult.

不利条件；障碍

v. To make it harder for someone to succeed.

妨碍；使处于不利地位

n. A scoring adjustment allowing players of different abilities to compete fairly.

让分；差点

Example

Without a car, the distance became a real handicap.

没有车，这段距离成了实实在在的障碍。

Limited access to reliable internet can be a serious handicap for students in remote communities.

对于偏远社区的学生来说，难以获得可靠的网络连接可能是一个严重的不利条件。

Collocations

a serious handicap
a golf handicap
be handicapped by

Synonyms

disadvantage
obstacle

Antonyms

advantage

Usage tip

指残疾或残疾人士时已过时，宜用disability。

Note

用于指残疾或残疾人士时已过时，可能冒犯。

FAQ

What does handicap mean?: A disadvantage that makes success or progress more difficult. To make it harder for someone to succeed. A scoring adjustment allowing players of different abilities to compete fairly.
How is handicap pronounced?: UK /ˈhændɪkæp/, US /ˈhændikæp/. Use the audio buttons above to listen.