What term describes the loss of hearing that can be either partial or total?

The term that encompasses both the partial and total loss of hearing is commonly referred to as hearing impairment. This term is broad and includes a range of hearing losses, from mild to profound. When someone has hearing impairment, they may struggle to hear soft sounds or may not be able to understand speech clearly, depending on the severity of their condition.

Deafness specifically describes a state where there is a significant or total inability to hear. Therefore, both hearing impairment and deafness can be correct in describing loss of hearing, as one term denotes a spectrum of loss while the other pinpoints a more complete lack of hearing.

By acknowledging that both deafness and hearing impairment fall under the umbrella of hearing loss, the answer that incorporates both terms illustrates the broader understanding of how hearing loss can be categorized and identified. This highlights the nuances in terminology related to auditory conditions.