Chord Shapes

Suspended 4th

Intervals: 1-4-5. A triad with the 3rd replaced by the 4th. The 4th typically resolves down by semitone to 3 when functioning as a true suspension (e.g. I–sus4–I in hymns and rock ballads). In jazz and rock, sus4 chords are also used as independent sonorities, especially with added 2 or 6, where they contribute to a modal or quartal texture. Guitar riffs and piano patterns frequently move between sus4 and plain triads to animate static harmony. Use sus4 when you want a sense of anticipation or “leaning towards” a major or minor chord without fully committing yet.