A7sus2

General info

Full name

A 7sus2

Symbol

A7sus2

Root

A

Quality

7sus2

Chord notes

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key

viRelative tonic (vi)C major

Stability / tension

Stable — can serve as major tonic

Most common resolutions

DD MajorEE MajorF#mF# Minor

Unstable degrees

4D

b7G

resolves down to the resolution tonic

Main resolution

A7sus2source

EE Major

Major chord A is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.

Other resolutions

A7sus2source

Deceptive resolution

F#mF# Minor

As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).

A7sus2source

Modal resolution

GG Major

In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.

A7sus2source

Jazz reharmonization

Amaj7A Major 7

In jazz, a major chord is enriched to maj7, 6/9, or add9 and can smoothly transition into a ii-V of another key (modulation).

A7sus2source

Functional resolution

EE Major

As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).

Features

Character

Dominant, with a 2nd instead of the 3rd

Characteristic interval

2nd instead of 3rd (2), Minor 7th (b7)

Description

The 2nd replaces the 3rd, withholding major quality, while the minor 7th preserves dominant colour. The 2nd may rise to the 3rd of a dominant seventh chord.

Application

• 2–3 suspension over dominant
• Modal harmony
• Funk and modern jazz

Voicing & structure

Harmony

Compatible scales

All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.