Assimilation

Question 1

What is assimilation?

Answer 1

In order to simplify the pronunciation of two consonants requiring different articulation, one of these consonants in rapid speech may be changed to another consonant and this process is called assimilation.

Question 2

Progressive assimilation

Answer 2

The first of two sounds influences the phonemic changes of the second. (bacon)

Question 3

Regressive assimilation

Answer 3

The second of two sounds influences the phonemic change of the first (fivepence)

Question 4

Reciprocal assimilation

Answer 4

Both sounds react upon eachother and both are modified or merge into one sound (tissue)

Question 5

Complete and partial assimilation

Answer 5

When two sounds differ only in place or in voice, one of the sounds is completely assimilated by the other i.e. becomes the other sound. (good boys - gubois)
But if two sounds differ in more than one phonological feature they are only partially assimilated (tenpence - tempns)

Question 6

Historical assimilation

Answer 6

In a lot of words with French origin, the assimilation took place a long time ago (picture)