C#aug Chord (C# augmented) on Guitar
C#aug (C# augmented) is made of the notes C# – E# – G##. The easiest guitar fingering is x4322x (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 C#aug
- Press the 5th string (A) at fret 4 (C#).
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 3 (E#).
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 2 (G##).
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 2 (C#).
- Do not play the 6th string (low E).
- Do not play the 1st string (high e).
| String | Fret | Note | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th string (low E) | x (mute) | - | |
| 5th string (A) | 4 | C# | R |
| 4th string (D) | 3 | E# | 3 |
| 3rd string (G) | 2 | G## | #5 |
| 2nd string (B) | 2 | C# | R |
| 1st string (high e) | x (mute) | - |
What is a C# augmented chord?
An augmented chord is a major triad with the fifth raised a half step.
Notes and formula. C#aug contains C#, E#, G##. Counted from the root C#, that is R (root), 3 (major 3rd), #5 (augmented 5th). It is also written Dbaug; the two names sound identical and the name used depends on the key of the song.
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 C#aug
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
C#aug chord FAQ
What notes are in a C#aug chord?
C#aug (C# augmented) contains the notes C#, E#, G##. The formula is R–3–#5 relative to the root C#.
How do you play C#aug on guitar?
The most common shape for C#aug is x4322x, 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 C#aug 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.
Is C#aug the same as Dbaug?
Yes. C# and Db are enharmonic: they are the same pitch with different names, so C#aug and Dbaug sound identical on guitar. The name used depends on the key of the song.
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