Which degree is known as the subdominant?

The subdominant is associated with the fourth degree of a scale. In the context of a major scale, it is referred to as the chord built on the fourth degree. For instance, in the key of C major, the subdominant is F, which is the fourth note in the scale (C-D-E-F).

Understanding the function of chords within a key is essential in music theory. The subdominant chord plays a critical role in establishing tension and resolving to the dominant (the fifth degree) or returning to the tonic (the first degree). This movement is integral to many musical compositions and helps create a sense of progression in harmony.

When analyzing the other degrees—such as the second, third, or fifth—it becomes clear that they serve different functions within a scale, such as mediant or dominant, respectively. Thus, identifying the fourth degree as the subdominant reinforces foundational concepts in scale degrees and their harmonic roles in music.