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dissimilation
In linguistics, this term describes a specific phonological phenomenon where the repetition of similar sounds is avoided to prevent tongue-tying or auditory monotony. It is the direct opposite of assimilation, where sounds become more similar. This process often occurs unconsciously to improve the articulatory ease of a word.
In biological and chemical contexts, the term is used as a technical synonym for catabolism. It refers to the breakdown of complex organic molecules to release energy, serving as the necessary counter-balance to assimilation (anabolism), which builds those molecules up.
Meanings
The process in linguistics where two similar sounds within a word become different to make the word easier to pronounce.
The change of the Latin 'assimilare' into a form where sounds diverge is an example of dissimilation.
A biological or chemical process in which a complex substance is broken down into simpler components, often as a counterpart to assimilation.
The metabolic cycle involves both assimilation for growth and dissimilation for energy release.