Which roman-numeral progression denotes a plagal cadence in major keys?

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Multiple Choice

Which roman-numeral progression denotes a plagal cadence in major keys?

A plagal cadence is built around a predominant-to-tonic move in major keys. The subdominant chord (the IV) functions as a gentle prelude to the tonic (I), and when IV moves to I the harmony settles on the home key with a softer, more open finish than the stronger pull of V–I. The classic plagal sound—often called an “Amen” cadence—comes from this IV to I progression, which also offers smooth voice-leading because the two chords share a common tone, creating a natural, flowing resolution. Other progressions don’t create that distinct plagal sense. Moving from the subdominant to the dominant (IV–V) pushes toward a strong sense of expectation but stops short of final closure. A movement from the supertonic to the dominant (ii–V) similarly leads toward a cadence, but it resolves to the dominant, not the tonic. Going from tonic to subdominant (I–IV) moves away from home without delivering the final sense of rest, so it isn’t a cadence.

A plagal cadence is built around a predominant-to-tonic move in major keys. The subdominant chord (the IV) functions as a gentle prelude to the tonic (I), and when IV moves to I the harmony settles on the home key with a softer, more open finish than the stronger pull of V–I. The classic plagal sound—often called an “Amen” cadence—comes from this IV to I progression, which also offers smooth voice-leading because the two chords share a common tone, creating a natural, flowing resolution.

Other progressions don’t create that distinct plagal sense. Moving from the subdominant to the dominant (IV–V) pushes toward a strong sense of expectation but stops short of final closure. A movement from the supertonic to the dominant (ii–V) similarly leads toward a cadence, but it resolves to the dominant, not the tonic. Going from tonic to subdominant (I–IV) moves away from home without delivering the final sense of rest, so it isn’t a cadence.

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