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Triad Position Symbols

Learn the figure symbols used to indicate triad inversion in classical harmonic analysis.

Triad Inversion Figures

To specify a triad's inversion alongside its Roman numeral, we use figure symbols derived from figured bass: no figure for Root Position, 6 for First Inversion (short for 6/3), and 6/4 for Second Inversion.

The Syntax of Triadic Inversions

Position figures (6 and 6/4) shorthand the precise interval distances above the bass, allowing composers to accurately document chord posture and stability across the score.