A phrase in C major
- C
- Dsus4
- G7
- C
Hear Dsus4 in a tonic–chord–dominant–tonic phrase. Its role depends on its position, not just its quality.
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Selected:D4G4A4
- Root
- 3rd / sus
- 5th
- 7th
- 6th / extensions
Dsus4
D suspended fourth
2 readings
The third is replaced by a perfect fourth, leaving the chord open and unresolved.
- Chord tones
- D1 · RootG4 · 3rdA5 · 5th
- Formula
- 1–4–5
- Root / bass
- D / D
- Notes played (low → high)
- D4 · G4 · A4
Other valid readings — choose the root you hear:
Dsus4 · suspended fourth
How to Use This Chord
Sound & role
An open sound that can delay the third and its resolution.
Genre examples
Pop
Folk
Rock
Examples of musical settings, not restrictions or claims about how often this chord appears.
Connection & passing potential
No specific chromatic passing use is established by these notes alone. A passing function requires a starting chord, a destination and voice movement.
Diatonic context · example keys
Every chord tone fits these example keys. Other keys may also fit; the chord root is not assumed to be the tonic.
C major · IIsus4
major
C minor · IIsus4
ascending melodic minor