A physical delay is characterized by:

A physical delay is specifically defined by challenges in reaching developmental milestones associated with motor skills, which include both gross and fine motor abilities. Gross motor skills involve larger movements such as running, jumping, and climbing, while fine motor skills pertain to smaller actions such as grasping objects, using utensils, and writing. When a child experiences a physical delay, it reflects an inability to achieve the expected levels of these skills for their age, which can impact their participation in daily activities and overall development.

The other options focus on different aspects of development that are not directly related to physical delays. Inability to understand communication pertains to language and cognitive development, struggles with emotional expressions relate more to social-emotional development, and delays in cognitive reasoning and understanding connect to intellectual and cognitive processing. These factors do not specifically define a physical delay, making the option concerning motor milestones the correct and most relevant choice.