The free resolution of the leading tone in a $\mathrm{V^7}$ functions similarly to the [[free resolution of the leading tone]] in the progression V → I. So long as the leading tone $(\hat{7})$ occurs in an inner voice and a higher voice moves from *re* $(\hat{2})$ to *do* $(\hat{1})$, the leading tone may drop to *sol* $(\hat{5})$. > [!NOTE] Important! > The tendency tone [[fa → mi (me)]] is still resolved strictly when employing a free resolution of the leading tone. **Example 1**. Free resolution of the leading tone in a $\mathrm{V^7}$, closed spacing. ![[example free resolution of the leading tone in a V7 closed spacing.png]] ![[example free resolution of the leading tone in a V7 closed spacing.mp3]] **Example 2**. Free resolution of the leading tone in a $\mathrm{V^7}$, open spacing. ![[example free resolution of the leading tone in a V7 open spacing.png]] ![[example free resolution of the leading tone in a V7 open spacing.mp3]]