Absorption: meaning, definitions and examples

Commonly used in scientific contexts to describe how a substance, energy, or information is taken in and retained. Usually, it refers to physical or physiological processes.

• The sponge's absorption of water was immediate
• The medication was tested for its rate of absorption into the bloodstream

Often used in both scientific and social contexts. In science, it refers to how substances are incorporated into the cells after digestion. In social settings, it means how individuals or groups adopt another culture or system effectively.

• The assimilation of nutrients occurs in the small intestine
• Cultural assimilation can be challenging for immigrants

Primarily used in biological or medical contexts to describe the act of taking in food or other substances into the body through the mouth.

• Ingestion of contaminated food can lead to food poisoning
• The doctor advised against the ingestion of foreign objects

Used in scientific contexts to describe how cells or organisms take in substances from their environment, but can also refer to how quickly a person understands or adopts new information.

• The roots of plants are responsible for the uptake of water and nutrients
• His quick uptake on new technologies impressed the team

Use 'absorption' when talking about something being taken in or soaked up, usually in physical or biological contexts, such as liquids, nutrients, or light.

• The paper towel's absorption of the spilled juice was impressive.
• Calcium absorption is an important process for maintaining strong bones.

'Assimilation' is best used when speaking about the process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas, or when different cultures are being integrated and becoming similar.

• The assimilation of immigrant cultures can enrich the society.
• His rapid assimilation of complex concepts amazed the professor.

'Integration' should be used when describing the process of combining different parts into a whole, especially in social, technological, or organizational settings.

• The integration of different software systems can streamline operations.
• Social integration programs help immigrants feel more at home.

'Incorporation' is ideal for referring to the act of including or integrating something as part of a whole, particularly in legal, business, or academic contexts.

• The incorporation of new safety protocols has improved worker protection.
• The company’s incorporation was completed last month.