As the IV degree (subdominant), a major chord can resolve to V or directly to I (plagal cadence).
Features
Character
No 3rd, with a 4th and major 6th
Characteristic interval
4th instead of 3rd (4), Major 6th (6)
Description
The 4th replaces the 3rd, leaving chord quality undefined; the major 6th adds a consonant extension. A possible 4–3 motion turns the chord into a 6 chord.
Application
Suspension before a 6 chord
Modal sonorities
Pedal bass
Voicing & structure
Root position
v1F#(F#4)Bass
root
v2B(B4)P4from F#
v3C#(C#5)M2from B
v4D#(D#5)M2from C#
Harmony
Compatible scales
All chord tones are contained in these scales — use them for improvisation.