The -TION and -SION Suffix Pronunciation: /ʃən/ vs. /ʒən/ Rules

Words ending in -TION and -SION have predictable pronunciation patterns. The vowel sound is always schwa followed by /n/, but the preceding sound varies.

The -TION Pronunciation Rule

The -TION ending is almost always pronounced /ʃən/ (sounds like shun). The T is always silent and the I becomes a schwa.

The -SION Pronunciation

The -SION ending can be /ʃən/ or /ʒən/. After vowels, it is usually /ʒən/. After consonants, it is usually /ʃən/.