Caug Guitar Chord
Caug is a three-note augmented chord built from C, E, G# — the root, major third, and augmented fifth. The raised fifth creates a dreamy, unresolved tension. It is commonly used in jazz, gospel, and chromatic voice leading, typically moving to a chord a perfect fourth above.
4 ways to play Caug
Notes
Intervals
C (Root), E (Major 3rd), G# (Augmented 5th)
Notes in the C Augmented Chord
The C Augmented chord is built from 3 notes: C, E, G#. It is a augmented chord — built from a root, major third, and augmented fifth (8 semitones above the root). On guitar, these notes are voiced across multiple strings simultaneously to create the full chord sound. Depending on the voicing, some notes may be doubled in different octaves to fill out the sound.
Common Chord Progressions with Caug
C Augmented appears in many common progressions. Here are the most-used patterns when Caug is the tonic chord:
Use our chords in a key tool to find all the chords that naturally pair with Caug in any key.
Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the C Augmented chord?
The C Augmented chord is made up of C, E, G#. These 3 notes form a triad (three-note chord structure).
What key is the C Augmented chord in?
C Augmented is a less common chord that doesn't appear as a diatonic chord in the standard 12 major keys, but is used as a borrowed or chromatic chord in many styles.
How do I play the Caug chord on guitar?
Place your fingers on the guitar fretboard according to the diagram above. The numbered dots show finger placement (1 = index, 2 = middle, 3 = ring, 4 = pinky), "O" means play the string open, and "X" means mute that string.
Other C Chords
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