iiø7
Half-diminished
Predominant tension.
Minor ii–V–i progression
Hear the core functional cadence of minor-key jazz harmony.
The minor iiø–V–i combines a half-diminished predominant, a strong dominant and a minor tonic. The exact dominant color can vary, but the functional motion stays clear.
minor ii V iminor ii v i progressioniiø V iminor 2 5 1 guitarm7b5 V7 minor
Chord qualities
Three functions define the cadence.
The ii chord is typically half-diminished, V is dominant, and i is minor.
V7
Dominant
Often altered or extended in jazz.
i / iMaj7 / i6
Minor tonic
Different tonic colors can complete the cadence.
Guide tones
Track the notes that define function.
The third and seventh of each seventh chord show much of the voice-leading logic.
iiø → V
Predominant to dominant
Use semitone and common-tone motion where possible.
V → i
Resolution
Let dominant guide tones resolve into stable minor chord tones.
Bass
Root or inversion
Keep the bass functional while shaping upper voices independently.
Transpose
Move the cadence through all keys.
Roman numerals make the functional pattern portable.
A minor
Bm7b5–E7–Am
Basic minor ii–V–i.
D minor
Em7b5–A7–Dm
Same cadence in D minor.
G minor
Am7b5–D7–Gm
Same cadence in G minor.
FAQ
Quick answers about minor ii V i.
Use these answers as a reference, then explore the relationships interactively.
What is a minor ii–V–i progression?
A minor-key cadence built from a half-diminished ii chord, dominant V chord and minor tonic i.
What is iiø7?
It is a half-diminished seventh chord, also written m7b5.
Does the V chord have to be altered?
No. A basic V7 works functionally; altered extensions are optional colors often used in jazz.
ChordRevelation
Move from explanation to interactive harmony.
Change the key, compare voicings, follow voice leading and see the same idea directly on the fretboard.