The metrical positions of word feet correspond to the positions employed in metrical phonology, which contain a single syllable in the unmarked (simplest) case. Because full stress is associated with length in Germanic languages, however, a resolvable sequence under full stress is most naturally assigned to a single arsis. Like alliteration, resolution shows sensitivity to metrical as well as linguistic prominence, occurring most often on the strongest S position of the verse (see R8). Stress reduction often shortens syllables in Germanic languages. When a resolvable sequence undergoes linguistic subordination or occupies a metrically subordinated position, the expectation of length is weakened and an unmarked, one-to-one assignment of syllables to metrical positions becomes more natural. Within the word-foot theory, rules for resolution do not have to be stipulated, since they derive from more general principles as corollaries. The only assumption required is that the poet prefers the most natural matching of syllables with metrical positions.

The principle of natural matching has a number of entailments, which can be expressed in the following detail rules:

1. R9a Within the word, resolution is most natural under primary stress, less natural under subordinate stress and forbidden under zero stress.

2. R9b Within the foot, resolution is most natural on an S position, less natural on an s position and forbidden on an x position.

3. R9c Alliteration on the most prominent S position makes resolution less natural on a subordinate S or s position within the same metrical domain.

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