Discapacidad vs. minusvalía
The Spanish language has two terms which often cause confusion: 'discapacidad' and 'minusvalía'. While both of them can be translated into English as 'disability' or 'handicap', they imply slightly different aspects of the condition.
Discapacidad
'Discapacidad' is a broader term used to describe a condition that restricts an individual's ability to perform certain activities due to an impairment, such as a physical or mental limitation. It focuses on the person's capability relative to societal norms and standards.
Mi hermana tiene una discapacidad visual.
(My sister has a visual disability.)
Las personas con discapacidad tienen los mismos derechos que las demás personas.
(People with disabilities have the same rights as other people.)
Minusvalía
'Minusvalía' carries more of an economic and legal tilt. Traditionally, this term was used to discuss scenarios where the disability causes a reduction in a person’s ability to earn or be used. Over time, it's usage has been discouraged due to its potential negative connotation as it can imply 'less value'.
Ha solicitado una pensión de jubilación por minusvalía.
(He has applied for a disability retirement pension.)
En algunos casos, la minusvalía puede suponer una limitación para encontrar empleo.
(In some cases, disability can be a limitation to find a job.)
Summary
'Discapacidad' and 'minusvalía' are both used to talk about disabilities in Spanish but they convey subtle differences. While 'discapacidad' represents the impairment that limits one's abilities relative to societal norms, 'minusvalía' traditionally was used more specifically when the impairment impacts one's economic potential or employment opportunities.