Quick Answer & Harmonic Definition

To play the C Suspended 4th chord on guitar, find the notes C, F, 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

Csus4 Guitar Chord

Replaces the third with a perfect fourth. Classic rock tension before resolution. Learn the C Suspended 4th chord on guitar with interactive fretboard, audio playback, and multiple voicings.

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

Playing the Csus4 Guitar Chord

The Csus4 chord is a suspended 4th chord built on the root C. It contains 3 notes: C, F, G. On guitar, this chord can be played in multiple positions across the fretboard, from open shapes to barre chord voicings.

Replaces the third with a perfect fourth. Classic rock tension before resolution. For guitarists, mastering the Csus4 chord unlocks many songs in the key of C.

Recommended Csus4 Guitar Voicing

The interactive fretboard above shows a practical Csus4 voicing. The chord notes (C, F, G) appear as highlighted positions. Tap any highlighted fret to hear that note, or click "Play Csus4" to hear the full chord.

Interval Structure of Csus4

Degree Interval Semitones Note in C
Root Root (R) 0 C
3rd Perfect 4th 5 F
5th Perfect 5th 7 G

Common Progressions with Csus4 on Guitar

  • I–IV–V: Csus4 – Fsus4 – Gsus4 (foundation of blues and rock)
  • I–V–vi–IV: Csus4 – G – Am – F (modern pop staple)
  • I–vi–IV–V: Csus4 – Am – F – G (50s doo-wop)

Tips for Practicing Csus4 on Guitar

Start by finding the root note C on the 6th and 5th strings. Build the chord shape from there. Practice transitioning between Csus4 and nearby chords like F and G. Use slow, deliberate strums and check each string rings clearly.

Other C Guitar Chords

Suspended 4th Chord in All 12 Keys

Knowledge Base & FAQs

Csus4 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 Csus4 chord on guitar?

To play the C Suspended 4th chord on guitar, find the notes C, F, 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 Csus4 guitar chord?

The C Suspended 4th guitar chord contains 3 notes: C, F, G.

These are derived from the suspended 4th interval formula applied to the root C.

What is the best guitar voicing for Csus4?

The most common guitar voicing for Csus4 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 Csus4 a beginner-friendly guitar chord?

Csus4 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 Csus4?

A barre chord version of Csus4 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 Csus4 on guitar?

Csus4 is widely used in jazz ii–V–I turnarounds, blues progressions, and modal funk vamps.

How does Csus4 sound different on guitar vs piano?

The Csus4 chord contains the same notes (C, F, 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 Csus4 as an open chord on guitar?

Open voicings of Csus4 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 Csus4 chord on guitar and ukulele?

The Csus4 chord contains the same notes (C, F, 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 Csus4 on guitar?

Practice moving between Csus4 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.