What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
osmosis
Example
I learned French through osmosis by living in France for a year. [osmosis: noun]
Example
The company's culture was absorbed through osmosis by new employees over time. [osmosis: noun]
assimilation
Example
Immigrants often face challenges in assimilating to a new culture. [assimilating: verb]
Example
The assimilation of new employees into the company's culture was a top priority. [assimilation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assimilation is more commonly used than osmosis in everyday language, particularly in social or cultural contexts. Osmosis is more commonly used in academic or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between osmosis and assimilation?
Both osmosis and assimilation can be used in formal or informal contexts, but osmosis may be perceived as more technical or scientific due to its usage in academic contexts.
