asperger syndrome: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowMedical, Clinical, Psychological, Educational, Informal (though increasingly less used professionally)
Quick answer
What does “asperger syndrome” mean?
A neurodevelopmental condition, historically classified on the autism spectrum, characterised by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests, without significant delays in language or cognitive development.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A neurodevelopmental condition, historically classified on the autism spectrum, characterised by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests, without significant delays in language or cognitive development.
The term was historically used to describe individuals on the autism spectrum with strong verbal abilities and specific, intense interests, but who faced challenges with social communication. It was subsumed under the umbrella diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in major diagnostic manuals like the DSM-5 (2013). The term and its eponymous origins remain the subject of significant debate within neurodivergent communities and clinical practice.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In both UK and US professional contexts, the diagnostic term has largely been superseded by ASD. Informal usage may persist more strongly in the UK due to earlier and wider public familiarity with the term through figures like Stephen Fry. The spelling 'syndrome' is universal.
Connotations
In both regions, usage can be controversial. It may be perceived as outdated or associated with the discredited legacy of Hans Asperger. Some use it to denote a 'higher-functioning' profile, a distinction many in the autistic community find inaccurate and problematic.
Frequency
Frequency of use has declined sharply in formal/academic writing post-DSM-5. It remains more frequent in legacy literature, certain support groups, and informal lay discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “asperger syndrome” in a Sentence
[Patient] has Asperger syndrome.[Patient] was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome.Asperger syndrome affects [Patient].Asperger syndrome is characterised by [Features].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “asperger syndrome” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His Asperger traits included a fascination with train timetables.
- The school provided support for Asperger pupils.
American English
- Her Asperger characteristics were evident in her detailed knowledge of astronomy.
- They discussed Asperger profiles in the meeting.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in HR or diversity contexts to discuss workplace accommodations, though 'autism spectrum' is now more common.
Academic
Used historically in psychology and medicine papers; current research predominantly uses 'Autism Spectrum Disorder'.
Everyday
Used in personal identification and informal conversation, though awareness of its debated status is growing.
Technical
Largely superseded by ASD in diagnostic criteria (DSM-5, ICD-11), but appears in legacy documents and specific clinical discussions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “asperger syndrome”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “asperger syndrome”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “asperger syndrome”
- Calling it 'Asperger's Disease' (it is a syndrome, not a disease).
- Using 'aspie' as a general term without knowing if the individual identifies with it.
- Assuming it is not a form of autism.
- Using the term as a current, formal diagnosis in clinical writing without qualification.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is now considered part of the autism spectrum. Historically, it was diagnosed when there were no significant language or cognitive delays. Current diagnostic frameworks (like DSM-5) use the single term Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to include all previous subtypes.
Controversy stems from two main areas: 1) Historical revelations about Hans Asperger's association with Nazi eugenics programs, leading many to reject the eponym. 2) The neurodiversity movement often views separating 'Asperger's' from 'autism' as creating a harmful hierarchy, suggesting some autistic people are 'better' or 'milder' than others.
Formally, no, not under the latest editions of major diagnostic manuals (DSM-5, ICD-11). A clinician would diagnose Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and may specify support needs. Some people may still refer to their historical diagnosis.
It depends on context and the individual. In formal, professional writing, using 'Autism Spectrum Disorder' is standard. In personal contexts, some individuals strongly identify with the term, while others find it outdated or offensive. The best practice is to follow the preference of the individual or group you are addressing.
A neurodevelopmental condition, historically classified on the autism spectrum, characterised by significant difficulties in social interaction and nonverbal communication, alongside restricted and repetitive patterns of behaviour and interests, without significant delays in language or cognitive development.
Asperger syndrome is usually medical, clinical, psychological, educational, informal (though increasingly less used professionally) in register.
Asperger syndrome: in British English it is pronounced /ˈæspɜːɡə ˌsɪndrəʊm/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈæspɜːrɡər ˌsɪndroʊm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No established idioms. The term itself is clinical.]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
ASPect: individuals with Asperger Syndrome often have intense focus on specific ASPects of interest, and may find social ASPects challenging.
Conceptual Metaphor
NEUROLOGY IS A SPECTRUM (part of the broader metaphor for autism), A DIFFERENT OPERATING SYSTEM (common within neurodiversity movement).
Practice
Quiz
What is a key reason for the declining professional use of the term 'Asperger syndrome'?