Unassimilable: meaning, definitions and examples

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unassimilable

 

[ ʌnəˈsɪməleɪbəl ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

cultural context

Unassimilable refers to a characteristic or quality that cannot be assimilated or integrated into a larger group or culture. This term is often used in discussions of social dynamics, particularly regarding immigrants or minority groups who may maintain distinct identities despite pressures to conform.

Synonyms

inassimilable, incompatible, incongruous

Examples of usage

  • The unassimilable nature of certain cultural practices can lead to misunderstandings.
  • Some communities remain unassimilable due to strong cultural ties.
  • The unassimilable aspects of their traditions were seen as a challenge to integration.

Word origin

The term 'unassimilable' combines the prefix 'un-' meaning 'not' with 'assimilable,' derived from 'assimilate,' which comes from the Latin 'assimilare,' meaning 'to make similar.' This Latin root is a composition of 'ad-' (to) and 'similis' (similar). The term has evolved over time, especially in sociological contexts, to describe groups or individuals whose attributes or cultural practices resist integration into a dominant culture. Its use has been particularly prominent in discussions around immigration and social identity, often highlighting the complexities of cultural exchange and the challenges faced by both immigrants and host societies.