impairment

• Substantif désignant un état de qualité, de force ou de fonction réduite, souvent résultant d'une incapacité physique ou mentale, d'une lésion ou d'un processus qui rend quelque chose moins efficace.

A noun referring to a condition of reduced quality, strength, or function, often resulting from physical or mental unfitness, damage, or routine that renders something less effective.

1. Physical or mental disabilityB2formalmedical

   A condition where a person's physical or mental abilities are reduced or limited.

   handicap (physique ou mental)

   • The accident caused a permanent visual impairment.
   • Hearing impairment can affect communication skills.
   • The program supports people with cognitive impairments.

   Synonymesafflictiondefectdisabilitydisorderhandicapincapacityinfirmitylimitation

   Antonymesabilitycapabilityfitnesssoundness

2. Reduction in quality or strengthB2formal

   A decline or weakening in the quality, function, or effectiveness of something.

   détérioration

   • The impairment of the machine's performance was due to lack of maintenance.
   • Long-term stress can lead to an impairment of memory.
   • The drug caused an impairment of motor functions.

   Synonymesdamagedebilitationdeclinedegradationdeteriorationreductionweakening

   Antonymesenhancementimprovementstrengthening

3. Damage or deteriorationB2formal

   Harm or damage that results in a reduction of strength, value, or usefulness.

   Détérioration, dommage

   • The flood caused significant impairment to the building's foundation.
   • The impairment of the road surface made driving dangerous.
   • The impairment of the ecosystem was caused by pollution.

   Synonymesdamagedebilitationdegradationdeteriorationharmreductionweakening

   Antonymesenhancementimprovementrepairrestorationstrengthening