 What the heck is person-first language and does it really matter? Basically, person-first language is saying a person with disabilities instead of a disabled person. There are two arguments here. Some people really like person-first language because it focuses on the person, the humanity, rather than the thing. Other people do not prefer that because the thing that is being referred to in this example, disability, is not something that they can separate their life or identity from. Honestly, this is going to vary no matter who you're asking. Just for me personally, I'm a disabled person. Yes, I am a person and I don't feel like that invalidates it. It's an accurate description. And though my life and identity are so much more than just disability, I can't separate myself from that. It is a substantial part of what defines my existence in this world. So, I'm curious, what do you use or prefer?