Which term describes the process of immigrants adopting the language and customs of the host society?

• A. Acculturation
• B. Multiculturalism
• C. Integration
• D. Assimilation

Answer: (D)

Assimilation is the process described here. It involves immigrants adopting the language, behavior, and daily customs of the host society, moving toward the norms and practices of the society they’ve joined. Over time, this often means adopting the dominant language, participating in mainstream social institutions, and gradually shedding distinctive practices from their country of origin.

This fits best because the focus is on adopting the host culture rather than simply exchanging cultural traits (acculturation), remaining distinctly separate while participating in society (integration), or recognizing and preserving multiple cultures within a society (multiculturalism). For example, newcomers who learn the language and participate in common social rituals, holidays, and work norms exemplify assimilation.