Assimilating is mixing 2 sounds

I simplified it, but here’s the truth

When I said “Assimilation”, I only told you part of the story.  What I was really describing was one type of assimilation, called “Gemination”.

Assimilation is a common phenomenon in connected speech in English. It occurs when the pronunciation of a word changes to make it easier to say in the context of the surrounding words. Assimilation is a natural process in spoken language that helps to create a more fluent and smooth sound.

There are several types of assimilation that occur in English, including:

1. Consonant Assimilation – This occurs when a consonant sound changes to become more like a nearby consonant sound. For example, in the phrase “that boy,” the “t” sound in “that” becomes more like the “b” sound in “boy” to create a smooth transition between the two words. The resulting sound is closer to “tha’ boy.”
2. Vowel Assimilation – This occurs when a vowel sound changes to become more like a nearby vowel sound. For example, in the phrase “green apple,” the “e” sound in “green” becomes more like the “a” sound in “apple” to create a smooth transition between the two words. The resulting sound is closer to “grin apple.”
3. Nasal Assimilation – This occurs when a nasal sound such as /n/ or /m/ becomes more like a nearby consonant sound. For example, in the phrase “grandma’s house,” the “n” sound in “grandma’s” becomes more like the “m” sound in “house” to create a smooth transition between the two words. The resulting sound is closer to “gramma’s house.”

Assimilation is a natural and necessary process in spoken English. It helps to make speech more efficient and easier to understand. However, it can also be a challenge for non-native speakers to master. To improve your pronunciation of assimilated sounds in English, it is helpful to listen carefully to native speakers and pay attention to how they link sounds together in connected speech.

In conclusion, assimilation is an important aspect of connected speech in English. It helps to create a more fluid and natural sound in spoken language. Non-native speakers can improve their pronunciation of assimilated sounds by practicing listening to and imitating native speakers, paying attention to the way sounds are linked together in connected speech.