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W ORD S ENDING IN -TION , -SION, OR -S SION

Words ending in -sion
The suffix -sion means “the state of.” For example,
conclusion means “the state of concluding.” There
are about 50 words in common use that end in -sion.
Most verbs change their endings in order to add the suffix. This suffix borrows The final e is dropped
the s from the verb. before the suffix is added,
resulting in this noun.
▷ Rule 1
If the verb ends in -se, then
remove the e and add -ion
because s is already present. precise -ion precision
This verb
ends with -se.

▷ Rule 2
This suffix is used when the verb
ends in -d, -l, -r, -s, or -t. Usually,
the last letter of the verb is dropped extend -sion extension
in order to add -sion and turn the verb
into a noun.
This verb The full suffix The final d is dropped before the
ends with -d. is needed here. suffix is added, resulting in this noun.

Words ending in -ssion
This suffix -ssion means “the result of.” For example,
impression means “the result of impressing.” Usually, a
This suffix borrows This is the newly
verb needs to change its ending before the suffix is added. the ss from the verb. formed noun.
▷ Rule 1
If a verb ends in -ss,
then just add -ion.
discuss -ion discussion

This verb ends
with -ss.
▷ Rule 2
If the verb ends with a -t, then
remove it and add -ssion.
omit -ssion omission

This verb The full suffix The final t is dropped before the
ends with -t. is needed here. suffix is added, resulting in this noun.

Unusual spellings Ending Examples The only words in which
Some words that end with a “shun” -sian Asian, Russian
sound do not follow the rules and the “sh” sound at the
just need to be learned. If unsure -xion complexion, crucifixion start of the last syllable is
about the correct spelling, always -cion coercion, suspicion
check a dictionary. -cean crustacean, ocean spelled with the letters sh
are cushion and fashion.