Cdim guitar chord (C Diminished)

Symbols: dim, °

Steps: 1-b3-b5

Notes: C-Eb-Gb

The C diminished chord brings a sense of tension and unease to your music. Comprising the notes C, Eb and Gb (root, minor third, and diminished fifth), this chord is often used for dramatic transitions or darker harmonies. Its dissonant quality adds mystery and complexity to compositions. Below, you'll find two variations how to play the "C dim" chord, each featuring finger placements and an audio sample.

Variation 1
Cdim guitar chord - variation 1
  • Press down on the B (2nd) string at the 4th fret using your ring finger
  • Use your pinky to press the G (3rd) string down on the 5th fret
  • Position your middle finger on the D (4th) string at the 4th fret and press down
  • With your index finger, press down on the A (5th) string at the 3rd fret
  • Strum from the 5th string to the 2nd strings

Variation 2
Cdim guitar chord - variation 2
  • Apply a barre with your index finger across the 8th fret, covering the 3rd to the 6th strings
  • Use your ring finger to press the D (4th) string down on the 10th fret
  • Press down on the A (5th) string at the 9th fret using your middle finger
  • Now, strum all the strings up to the 3rd string

Other C Chords

[ Table ]

Other Diminished Chords