Which term would be considered offensive when referring to all types of hearing losses?

The term "hearing impairment" is considered offensive when referring to all types of hearing losses primarily because it can carry a clinical and somewhat negative connotation. It tends to emphasize deficits rather than recognizing the individual's experience or identity related to hearing differences.

In contrast, "Deaf" and "hard-of-hearing" are terms that many individuals use to self-identify and embrace their unique experiences with hearing. These terms can foster a sense of community and empowerment among individuals with various degrees of hearing loss. "Cued speech" refers to a method that aids communication for some people with hearing loss but is not used broadly to describe hearing status itself.

Individuals in the Deaf and hard-of-hearing communities may prefer person-first language or community-specific terms, which can promote respect and acknowledgment of their lived experiences. Therefore, the positive experiences associated with identities such as "Deaf" or "hard-of-hearing" contrast sharply with the more clinical tone often attributed to "hearing impairment.”