Explanation
The adaptation of a sound to a neighboring sound in at least one feature. In the atlas, the term is not treated in isolation: it illustrates linguistic adaptation in speech. This reveals the distinctions that the form enables and how it relates to adjacent phenomena.
Example
In colloquial speech, “ham wir” instead of “haben wir.”
Counterexample
Conscious imitation of an accent is not phonological assimilation.
Distinction
Conscious imitation of an accent is not phonological assimilation.
Effect on thought and perception
The term draws attention to linguistic adaptation in speech. What previously appeared to be a uniform process becomes perceptible as a structured relationship.
Resonance
Resonance arises when assimilation is not merely named but experienced as a dynamic interplay between form, expectation, and effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Assimilation“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-088-005. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-088-005The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.