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July 24, 2013

How to Say English Words Ending in TION

In its purpose to confuse and perplex, native English speakers have a unique way of pronouncing words that end in TION. Words in this category can include (not limited to): motion, perception, exception, pronunciation, etc. 

 Pronunciation Tips for TION: 
  • TI sounds like SH.  
  • ON can sound like "un" (as in "shun") or "in" (as in "shin") depending on the regional accent in the U.S. 
Also, many words ending in TION have many syllables, so it's important to break the syllables correctly to get the right pronunciation. The video below showcases some good examples of this: (This video is not produced by Authentic Journeys.) 

To practice in more detail, follow Rachel in learning to pronounce a four syllable TION word - application.

 Some Gujarati, Oriya and other speakers of Indian languages confuse this sound in speech. When trying to make this sound, an American may hear a ZH (SH with vibration), a J sound or an S sound.  
Assure that your "sh" doesn't vibrate- or it will sound like this- ZH. 


Jennifer Kumar, owner of this blog helps Indians to speak with more clarity in cross-cultural business contexts with U.S. Americans. Read more about her accent programs here.

 Networkedblogs link: http://networkedblogs.com/Nrsa9
Posted by Jennifer Kumar
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