What is the chord function of a Half Cadence?

The chord function of a Half Cadence is understood as a musical phrase that concludes with the dominant chord, creating a sense of anticipation and incomplete resolution. The dominant chord, typically represented as V in a tonal context, leads to a feeling that the music is not finished, compelling the listener to expect a resolution that often follows in the subsequent musical phrase. This feature makes the Half Cadence an effective tool for composers to create tension or propel a piece forward.

In contrast, a progression that ends on the tonic (I) would constitute a perfect cadence, providing a complete sense of resolution. Ending on the subdominant (IV) or the supertonic (ii) does not generate the same strong sense of expectation or forward drive as a Half Cadence does when it resolves to the dominant. Thus, the distinctive role of the Half Cadence is primarily identified with its conclusion on the V chord.