I–IV–ii–V in C Major

Pattern: I – IV – ii – V Chords: C – F – Dm – G

Chord Breakdown

Numeral	Chord	Type	Function
I	C (details)	major	Tonic
IV	F (details)	major	Subdominant
ii	Dm (details)	minor	Supertonic
V	G (details)	major	Dominant

Harmonic Analysis

This progression moves through C (Tonic) → F (Subdominant) → Dm (Supertonic) → G (Dominant).

This progression moves through the subdominant and supertonic before reaching the dominant, creating a polished harmonic cycle. The ii–V motion at the end gives it a sophisticated finish common in pop songwriting.

Song Examples

I Want It That Way — Backstreet Boys
Beautiful Day — U2

Chord Details

C F Dm G

More Progressions in C Major

I–IV–V–I I–V–vi–IV I–vi–IV–V ii–V–I I–IV–V I–♭VII–IV vi–IV–I–V I–V–vi–iii–IV–I–IV–V I–IV I–V IV–V IV–I