Assault is as assault does. Semi-auto versions of select fire military rifles are a lot of fun to shoot, especially in 5.56, and very effective, especially in 7.62.
But I have no doubts about their potential as an assault weapon, esp. with today's triggers. 
Lanza assaulted that school, with a semi-auto Bushmaster.  Assault is the only word.
Assault is not a battle worth fighting. Call mine what you want, but call them mine.