Phonology of French -tion Pronunciation348

The French suffix "-tion" is pronounced in a variety of ways, depending on the region and the word in which it is used. In general, the "-tion" suffix is pronounced as follows:
[sjɔ̃] when it is preceded by a consonant, as in the word "action" (pronounced [aksjɔ̃]).
[sjɔ̃ŋ] when it is preceded by a vowel, as in the word "nation" (pronounced [nasjɔ̃]).

However, there are a number of exceptions to these general rules. For example, the "-tion" suffix is pronounced [sjɔ̃] in the following words:
abolition (pronounced [abolisiɔ̃])
attention (pronounced [atãsjɔ̃])
caution (pronounced [kosjɔ̃])
commotion (pronounced [komosjɔ̃])
condition (pronounced [kɔ̃disjɔ̃])

The "-tion" suffix is also pronounced [sjɔ̃ŋ] in the following words:
audition (pronounced [odisjɔ̃ŋ])
diction (pronounced [diksjɔ̃ŋ])
fiction (pronounced [fiksjɔ̃ŋ])
intention (pronounced [ɛ̃tɑ̃sjɔ̃ŋ])
mention (pronounced [mɑ̃sjɔ̃ŋ])

In addition to the above, there are a number of words in which the "-tion" suffix is pronounced differently. For example, the "-tion" suffix is pronounced [sjɔ̃] in the word "bénédiction" (pronounced [benediksiɔ̃]), and it is pronounced [sjɔ̃ŋ] in the word "dominion" (pronounced [dɔminjɔ̃ŋ]).

The pronunciation of the "-tion" suffix can be a challenge for non-native speakers of French. However, with a little practice, it is possible to master the different pronunciations and to speak French with confidence.

Here are some tips for pronouncing the "-tion" suffix correctly:
Pay attention to the surrounding sounds. The pronunciation of the "-tion" suffix will vary depending on whether it is preceded by a consonant or a vowel.
Practice saying the "-tion" suffix in different words. This will help you to get used to the different pronunciations.
Listen to native French speakers. This will help you to learn the correct pronunciation of the "-tion" suffix in context.

2024-11-05

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