If 4-3 happens as a suspension and it is figured then why not also figure an accented passing tone 4-3?
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2 Answers
I would argue that there are plenty of times where accented passing tones are shown in the figures. The most common example of this would be with the cadential six-four, where the sixth and fourth above the bass are understood as accented non-chord tones (often passing tones) that delay the appearance of the fifth and third above the bass.
When you decide an accented passing tone is a suspension, figure it. When you decide a suspension is merely an accented passing tone, don’t figure it.
If you are figuring for analysis, your choice. If you are figuring for a continuo player to read, I suggest you err on the side of figuring. It will help them play less clunkers.
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1Pretty roundabout way to argue that accented passing tones are figured. Richard's answer provided that argument a lot more clearly. Commented Apr 19, 2022 at 14:38
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We're not really making the same point. Richard's answer confuses the issue by relying on the example of a cadential 6/4, which is a very special case where two notes MAY be considered accented passing notes (or an unprepared suspension) but are by no means universally accepted as such.– LaurenceCommented Apr 19, 2022 at 19:15