Caug Chord (C augmented) on Guitar
Caug (C augmented) is made of the notes C – E – G#. The easiest guitar fingering is x32110 (low E to high e; x = muted, 0 = open). It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
Easiest shape
Alternative shape
Higher position
How to play Caug
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 3 (C).
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 2 (E).
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 1 (G#).
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 1 (C).
- Play the 1st string (high e) open (E).
- Do not play the 6th string (low E).
| String | Fret | Note | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th string (low E) | x (mute) | - | |
| 5th string (A) | 3 | C | R |
| 4th string (D) | 2 | E | 3 |
| 3rd string (G) | 1 | G# | #5 |
| 2nd string (B) | 1 | C | R |
| 1st string (high e) | 0 (open) | E | 3 |
What is a C augmented chord?
An augmented chord is a major triad with the fifth raised a half step.
Notes and formula. Caug contains C, E, G#. Counted from the root C, that is R (root), 3 (major 3rd), #5 (augmented 5th).
Sound. Dreamy, suspended and slightly unreal, because the chord is symmetrical and has no clear tonal centre.
Where it is used. Used for tension in jazz, musical theatre, and as a passing chord in classic rock and pop.
Tips for playing Caug
Like the diminished chord, the shape repeats every four frets. Slide it around the neck to find new colours.
Common mistake: Holding it too long. The augmented chord is a spice, not a main dish.
Related chords
Caug chord FAQ
What notes are in a Caug chord?
Caug (C augmented) contains the notes C, E, G#. The formula is R–3–#5 relative to the root C.
How do you play Caug on guitar?
The most common shape for Caug is x32110, read from the low E string to the high e string (x = muted, 0 = open, numbers = frets). It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
Is Caug an easy guitar chord?
It is rated intermediate. It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
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