dissimilate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /dɪˈsɪmɪleɪt/
KK: /dɪˈsɪməˌleɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To change so that things become different or not similar to each other.
Example
In the process of language evolution, some sounds may dissimilate to create clearer distinctions between words.
Tense Forms
Past: dissimilated
Past Participle: dissimilated
Conversation
Have you noticed how some words dissimulate over time?
Yeah, it's fascinating how language evolves like that.
Exactly! It's like they become less similar to their original forms.
Totally! Language is always changing in interesting ways.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
diverge
differ
separate
Antonyms
converge
unify
merge
transitive verb
Definition
To make something different or unlike in some way, especially in terms of characteristics or qualities.
Example
The teacher encouraged the students to dissimilate their ideas to foster creativity.
Tense Forms
Past: dissimulated
Past Participle: dissimulated
Conversation
Have you ever noticed how some languages dissimilate sounds over time?
Yeah, it's interesting how that happens with pronunciation.
Right? It makes me think about how we dissimilate certain words in English too.
Root Explanation
Dissimilate → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "similare" (meaning to make similar). The word describes the process of making things different or not similar to each other.
Memory Tip
Think of 'making things apart' ('dis-') and 'not similar' ('similare') — that's why dissimilate means to make things different.
Visually Confused Words
disassimilate
disimitate
assimilate
disassimilative
undissimulated