What is a Cdim Chord?
Cdim
Cdim Diminished
String-by-String
E
×
A
3
D
1
G
2
B
1
e
×
Cdim Diminished is a diminished chord with the root C, minor third D#, and diminished fifth F#. It creates a strong sense of tension and instability, often used as a passing chord.
Intervals
RootMinor 3rdDiminished 5th
Notes
CD#F#
Why does Cdim sound tense and unstable?
The Cdim Diminished chord gets its tense and unstable character from the combination of its root, minor 3rd, diminished 5th. The specific intervals between the notes C, D#, F#create the harmonic tension and color that define this chord's unique sonic signature.
How to use Cdim?
Cdim is commonly used in progressions across many genres. Try substituting it where you would normally play a standard C chord for added harmonic interest. It pairs well with other chords in the key of C and can serve as both a foundation and a color chord depending on the context.