G7sus2

G 7sus2

Octaves

Musical context

How the chord relates to the scale, mode, key and progression.

Theory

General info

Full name
G 7sus2
Symbol
G7sus2
Root
G
Quality
7sus2

Chord notes

1Groot
2Amajor 2nd
5Dperfect 5th
b7Fminor 7th

Functions & resolutions

Typical function in key
VDominant (V)C major
Stability / tension
Stable — can serve as major tonic
Most common resolutions
Unstable degrees
4C
b7F
resolves down to the resolution tonic
Main resolution
G7sus2source
DD Major
Major chord G is a stable tonic. As tonic it doesn't require resolution, but in a progression context typically moves to IV or V.
Other resolutions
G7sus2source
Deceptive resolution
EmE Minor
As the V degree, a major chord can defy expectations by moving to vi instead of I (deceptive cadence).
G7sus2source
Modal resolution
FF Major
In modal context, a major chord can freely move to bVII, bIII, or bVI — characteristic of Mixolydian mode.
G7sus2source
Jazz reharmonization
Gmaj7G 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).
G7sus2source
Functional resolution
DD 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

Root position

v1G(G4)Bass
root
v2A(A4)M2from G
v3D(D5)P4from A
v4F(F5)m3from D

Harmony

Typical progressions

Compatible scales

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

This chord on guitar 🎸

See how G7sus2 looks on guitar.

Explore

Circle of fifths

Highlighted major keys contain this chord among their diatonic harmonies.

CAmGEmDBmAF#mEC#mBG#mF#D#mDbBbmAbFmEbCmBbGmFDmGmajor
Relative key
Dominant
Subdominant
Key signature
1 sharp (F#)

Practice

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Frequently Asked Questions