In the progression [[V → I]], where the soprano line moves from *re* $(\hat{2})$ to *do* $(\hat{1})$ and the leading tone $(\hat{7})$ occurs in an inner voice, it may skip down a third to *sol* $(\hat{5})$ instead of resolving to *do* $(\hat{1})$—a phenomenon known as the *free resolution of the leading tone*.^[The terminology for this phenomenon is not universal. Other terms include the “frustrated leading tone” or the “leading-tone drop.”] As shown in **Example 1**, the leading tone $(\hat{7})$ in the alto line resolves downward to *sol* $(\hat{5})$ rather than *do* $(\hat{1})$. This is permissible because the soprano supplies the expected resolution instead of the alto. **Example 1.** Free resolution of the leading tone, closed spacing. ![[example free resolution of the leading tone closed spacing.png]] ![[example free resolution of the leading tone closed spacing.mp3]] A strict resolution of the leading tone in the same situation would result in an incomplete [[tonic triad]], as shown in **Example 2** below. Thus, the rationale for the free resolution is that it allows all members of both the V and I chords to be present. **Example 2.** Strict resolution of the leading tone, closed spacing. ![[example strict resolution of the leading tone closed spacing.png]] ![[example strict resolution of the leading tone closed spacing.mp3]] The free resolution may also occur in an inner voice when the expected resolution of the leading tone is displaced by an octave, as shown in **Example 3**. This is acceptable so long as a higher voice—such as the soprano—moves from *re* $(\hat{2})$ to *do* $(\hat{1})$. **Example 3.** Free resolution of the leading tone, open spacing. ![[example free resolution of the leading tone open spacing.png]] ![[example free resolution of the leading tone open spacing.mp3]] Lastly, as shown in **Example 4**, the leading tone may leap from *ti* $(\hat{7})$ to *mi* $(\hat{3})$—a procedure known as the [[tertian leap]]—in order to change spacing. **Example 4.** Free resolution of the leading tone, tertian leap. ![[example free resolution of the leading tone tertian leap.png]] ![[example free resolution of the leading tone tertian leap.mp3]]