The suffix “–sion” is a common English ending used to form nouns from verbs, usually describing an action, process, or state. Understanding words ending in sion not only improves your vocabulary but also helps you grasp English word formation rules, spelling patterns, and pronunciation.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The meaning and grammar rules of the suffix –sion.
- The difference between –sion and –tion.
- A complete list of words ending in –sion (with meanings and examples).
- Tips and exercises to memorize and use them confidently.
Let’s dive into the fascinating world of English suffixes and word formation.
What Does the Suffix “–Sion” Mean?
The suffix “–sion” is used to form nouns that describe:
- An action (expansion → the act of expanding)
- A state or condition (confusion → being confused)
- A process or result (decision → the result of deciding)
Origin
The suffix “–sion” comes from Latin –sio / –sionis, meaning “the act of” or “the state of.”
It’s often attached to verbs ending in –de, –d, –se, or –t.
Example:
- Decide → Decision
- Expand → Expansion
- Confuse → Confusion
- Admit → Admission
Also Read: Words ending in ance
Grammar Rule: When to Use “–Sion” Instead of “–Tion”
Both –sion and –tion turn verbs into nouns, but the choice depends on the verb ending.
| Verb Ending | Add Suffix | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Verbs ending in –de or –d | Add –sion | decide → decision |
| Verbs ending in –se | Add –sion | confuse → confusion |
| Verbs ending in –t | Often add –sion | permit → permission |
| Verbs ending in –te | Usually take –tion | educate → education |
Tip:
If the base verb ends with –d, –de, or –se, the noun usually ends in –sion.
Common Words Ending in Sion (With Meanings)
Here’s a categorized list of 100+ words ending in –sion to expand your English vocabulary. These are grouped by syllable count and usage type for easy learning.
Everyday Use Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Decision | A choice or judgment made after thinking |
| Confusion | State of being unclear or puzzled |
| Permission | The act of allowing or granting approval |
| Vision | The ability to see or imagine |
| Mission | A specific task or purpose |
| Division | The act of separating into parts |
| Occasion | A special event or time |
| Passion | Strong emotion or enthusiasm |
| Admission | Entry or acceptance into a place |
| Expression | The act of showing feelings or thoughts |
Academic & Professional Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Discussion | The act of talking about something in detail |
| Conclusion | The end or result of something |
| Profession | A type of job requiring special education |
| Expansion | The act of increasing in size or amount |
| Impression | The effect or impact on someone’s mind |
| Commission | An official group or task assigned |
| Transmission | The process of sending or passing something |
| Submission | The act of presenting or yielding |
| Revision | The process of reviewing or editing |
| Suppression | The act of stopping something forcibly |
Scientific & Technical Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Compression | The act of pressing something together |
| Aggression | Hostile or violent behavior |
| Conversion | The process of changing from one form to another |
| Erosion | The gradual wearing away of something |
| Emission | The act of releasing light, heat, or gas |
| Collision | An instance of two things hitting each other |
| Explosion | A violent burst or release of energy |
| Inclusion | The act of containing or involving something |
| Extension | The act of lengthening or stretching out |
| Admission | The process of entering or accepting |
Abstract or Emotional Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Depression | A state of deep sadness or low mood |
| Compassion | Deep sympathy or concern for others |
| Confession | The act of admitting a fault or sin |
| Obsession | An uncontrollable focus or fixation |
| Expression | Showing one’s feelings through words or gestures |
| Impression | The impact left on someone’s mind |
| Suppression | The act of holding back emotions or actions |
| Intention | The aim or plan behind an action |
| Possession | The act of owning something |
| Decision | The mental process of choosing between options |
Longer or Complex Words
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Intermission | A short break between events or acts |
| Transmission | Process of sending signals or messages |
| Decompression | Release of pressure |
| Repression | The act of restraining or suppressing |
| Aggression | Hostile action or behavior |
| Concession | The act of yielding or granting |
| Progression | A gradual movement or development |
| Succession | Sequence or order of events |
| Submission | The act of yielding or presenting something |
| Supervision | The act of overseeing activities |
Difference Between “–Sion” and “–Tion”
| Feature | –Sion | –Tion |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Latin –sio | Latin –tio |
| Verb ending | Verbs ending in –d, –de, –se, –t | Verbs ending in –te, –tate, –ify |
| Example | expand → expansion | educate → education |
| Sound | Pronounced /ʃən/ or /ʒən/ | Pronounced /ʃən/ |
| Function | Process, state, or result | Process, act, or state |
Example:
- Confuse → Confusion (–sion)
- Create → Creation (–tion)
Grammar Insight: Sion Suffix Meaning
The –sion suffix typically forms abstract nouns.
It adds a sense of action, process, or condition.
Common word patterns:
- –de → –sion → decide → decision
- –se → –sion → revise → revision
- –t → –sion → permit → permission
These patterns are key to building advanced vocabulary and understanding English morphology (word structure).
More Read: Words ending in ship
Sentences Using Words Ending in –Sion
| Word | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Decision | The decision to travel was made last night. |
| Confusion | The new rules caused confusion among students. |
| Permission | You need permission to enter the lab. |
| Revision | I made a quick revision before submitting my report. |
| Submission | The deadline for submission is tomorrow. |
| Admission | Her admission was based on merit. |
| Profession | Teaching is a respected profession. |
| Impression | His kindness made a lasting impression. |
| Extension | The teacher gave an extension for the assignment. |
| Explosion | The explosion was heard from miles away. |
For Students: Practice Exercises
- Convert these verbs into nouns using –sion:
- decide → _______
- expand → _______
- include → _______
- confuse → _______
- permit → _______
- Fill in the blanks:
- The _______ of the disease was quick.
- She gave me _______ to use her notes.
- My teacher’s _______ helped me improve.
- Write 5 sentences using different –sion words.
Final Thoughts:
Learning words ending in –sion helps you strengthen your grammar and vocabulary, recognize word formation patterns, and improve both your writing and comprehension skills. Whether you’re an ESL learner, student, or teacher, understanding suffixes like –sion and –tion is an essential part of mastering English.
So, the next time you come across words like decision, discussion, or confusion, remember they’re not just ordinary words, but powerful transformations of actions into ideas that make your language richer and more expressive.
FAQs On words ending in sion
Q1. What does “–sion” mean?
It shows action, process, or result turning verbs into nouns.
Q2. What’s the difference between “–sion” and “–tion”?
Use “–sion” after verbs ending in –d, –de, –se, or –t.
Q3. How to practice words ending in sion?
Write sentences, make flashcards, or play word quizzes.
Q4. Are “sion” words common in English?
Yes they appear frequently in academic and daily writing.







