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inassimilable

inassimilable

9.7
Unable to change so it sounds like nearby sounds
  • adjective
  • /ˌɪnəˈsɪməˌleɪbəl/
  • Specialized
translation icon : inasimilable
  • Some foreign words remain inassimilable in English, keeping their original pronunciation.

Examples

  • In certain dialects, these sounds are inassimilable and do not blend with neighboring consonants.

  • The linguist explained why the cluster was inassimilable in rapid speech.

  • Some languages contain sounds that are inassimilable to speakers of other languages.

  • The concept of an inassimilable accent can be challenging for learners.

  • Some foreign words remain inassimilable in English, keeping their original pronunciation.

  • In certain dialects, these sounds are inassimilable and do not blend with neighboring consonants.

  • Some languages contain sounds that are inassimilable to speakers of other languages.

Synonyms

unassimilable
vsinassimilable
  • Specialized
9.6

Unable to change a sound to match nearby sounds when speaking

uses the alternative in prefix spelling while keeping the same sense
unassimilated
vsinassimilable
  • Specialized
8.8

Not changed to fit a language's sounds or grammar

emphasizes inability to be changed rather than just remaining foreign

Antonyms

assimilable
  • Specialized
1 8.1

A substance the body can absorb and use

Surface Forms

inassimilable positive

Morphology

inassimilable = assimilable (transparent) = in + assimil + able

This sense is a direct negative formation from 'assimilable' and keeps the same technical phonological meaning with simple negation.

Etymology

Inassimilable also breaks down into in- 'not' and assimilable from assimilate 'to make similar'. In language, this gives a simple picture: an inassimilable sound is one that will not change to match the sounds next to it, so it stays separate in speech.