Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

To play the C Augmented chord on guitar, find the notes C, E, G# across the fretboard. The root C typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this triad chord shape.

Guitar Chord

Caug Guitar Chord

A major triad with a raised fifth. Creates a mysterious, unsettled sound. Learn the C Augmented chord on guitar with interactive fretboard, audio playback, and multiple voicings.

Notes
C – E – G#
Intervals
0 – 4 – 8
Type
triad chord
C E G#
E
A
D
G
B
e
3
5
7
9
12
3 notes · Standard (E A D G B E)

Playing the Caug Guitar Chord

The Caug chord is a augmented chord built on the root C. It contains 3 notes: C, E, G#. On guitar, this chord can be played in multiple positions across the fretboard, from open shapes to barre chord voicings.

A major triad with a raised fifth. Creates a mysterious, unsettled sound. For guitarists, mastering the Caug chord unlocks many songs in the key of C.

Recommended Caug Guitar Voicing

The interactive fretboard above shows a practical Caug voicing. The chord notes (C, E, G#) appear as highlighted positions. Tap any highlighted fret to hear that note, or click "Play Caug" to hear the full chord.

Interval Structure of Caug

Degree Interval Semitones Note in C
Root Root (R) 0 C
3rd Major 3rd 4 E
5th Augmented 5th 8 G#

Common Progressions with Caug on Guitar

  • I–IV–V: Caug – Faug – Gaug (foundation of blues and rock)
  • I–V–vi–IV: Caug – G – Am – F (modern pop staple)
  • I–vi–IV–V: Caug – Am – F – G (50s doo-wop)

Tips for Practicing Caug on Guitar

Start by finding the root note C on the 6th and 5th strings. Build the chord shape from there. Practice transitioning between Caug and nearby chords like F and G. Use slow, deliberate strums and check each string rings clearly.

Other C Guitar Chords

C
Major
Cm
Minor
C7
Dominant 7th
Cmaj7
Major 7th
Cm7
Minor 7th
Cdim
Diminished

Augmented Chord in All 12 Keys

Caug C#aug Daug D#aug Eaug Faug F#aug Gaug G#aug Aaug A#aug Baug
Virtual Guitar
Interactive fretboard
Caug Piano
Piano chord diagram
C Scale
Notes that fit this chord
Songs
Find songs using Caug

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Caug Guitar Chord — FAQ

Everything you need to know about our browser-based Web Audio engine, instruments, and music theory workspace.

How do I play the Caug chord on guitar?

To play the C Augmented chord on guitar, find the notes C, E, G# across the fretboard.

The root C typically goes on the 6th or 5th string. Use the interactive fretboard above to see exact finger placement for this triad chord shape.

What notes make up the Caug guitar chord?

The C Augmented guitar chord contains 3 notes: C, E, G#.

These are derived from the augmented interval formula applied to the root C.

What is the best guitar voicing for Caug?

The most common guitar voicing for Caug uses a root position with C on the 6th or 5th string.

The exact frets depend on your preferred voicing — the interactive fretboard above shows a recommended open or barre position shape.

Is Caug a beginner-friendly guitar chord?

Caug is a triad, making it accessible for beginners.

Focus on clean fretting of each 3 notes and strumming only the target strings.

What is a barre chord version of Caug?

A barre chord version of Caug uses your index finger pressed across all strings at a specific fret, with the remaining fingers forming the chord shape.

The root C determines the barre position on the 6th or 5th string.

What are common chord progressions with Caug on guitar?

Caug is widely used in jazz ii–V–I turnarounds, blues progressions, and modal funk vamps.

How does Caug sound different on guitar vs piano?

The Caug chord contains the same notes (C, E, G#) on both instruments.

On guitar, the voicing depends on string selection and fret position, creating a different timbre. Guitar chords often include string-specific articulations like hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Can I play Caug as an open chord on guitar?

Open voicings of Caug require C to be playable within the first 3 frets.

If open shapes aren't available, use a barre chord voicing instead.

What is the difference between the Caug chord on guitar and ukulele?

The Caug chord contains the same notes (C, E, G#) on both instruments.

However, the guitar has 6 strings in EADGBE tuning while the ukulele has 4 strings in GCEA tuning, so the finger shapes are completely different.

How do I practice transitioning to and from Caug on guitar?

Practice moving between Caug and its neighboring chords in the key of C major: F and G.

Use a metronome at a slow tempo (60 BPM) and focus on clean, simultaneous finger placement.