Pronunciation: [fˈakʃən] (IPA) 
The word "faction" /ˈfækʃən/ is spelled with an "f" and "c" because it comes from the Latin word "factio." The "c" in Latin represented the sound /k/, which later became the /ʃ/ sound in English. The "t" in "factio" became "t" in faction as it moved from Latin to English. The final "ion" ending in faction represents a noun formed from a verb, meaning "the act of" or "the state of," as in "action" from "act."
Faction is a noun that refers to a group or organization within a larger entity, most commonly a political party or government, which is formed due to disagreements or differing views on specific issues. It represents a division or a subset within a larger whole, often working together towards a common goal or advocating for specific policies or principles.
Factions typically emerge when individuals or groups within a larger entity perceive that their interests or ideals are not adequately represented or prioritized. These divisions often lead to conflicts, internal debates, and power struggles within the organization. Factions can differ in their size, influence, and goals, ranging from minor disagreements to substantial ideological divisions that fracture larger entities.
The term faction is also applicable to other areas besides politics. It can be used to describe divisions within religious groups, social movements, or even within communities at large. In these contexts, factions often represent various perspectives, beliefs, values, or interests within the larger collective.
Factions can contribute to the functioning of democratic systems by allowing for multiple viewpoints and fostering healthy debate and discourse. However, they can also be disruptive and hinder the ability of the larger entity to make unified decisions or effectively address collective challenges.
In summary, a faction is a subgroup or organization within a larger entity, often a political party or government, which forms due to disagreement on certain issues, advocating for specific policies or principles. It represents divisions within a larger whole and can be characterized by conflicts, internal debates, and power struggles.
A party in turbulent or disloyal opposition; a cabal; dissension.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "faction" has its origins in the Latin word "factio", which means "a making" or "a doing". The Latin word derived from the verb "facere", meaning "to do" or "to make". In medieval Latin, "factio" also took on the meaning "a political or military faction", which led to its usage in English with a similar connotation.
