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Cm is the C minor guitar chord. It uses the notes C, E♭, and G and the interval formula 1-♭3-5.
The C minor minor chord, composed of the root (C minor), minor third E♭, and perfect fifth G, evokes a melancholic or introspective emotion. The lowered third E♭ gives it a somber, contemplative quality, contrasting with the major chord’s brightness, and is often used to express depth and emotional complexity.
Also written as Cmin.
These are quick-start shapes for players who want the answer first and the deeper theory second.
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Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
This note supplies the minor color and gives the chord its darker emotional pull.
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
Cm uses the notes C, E♭, and G. Its interval formula is 1-♭3-5.
Cm is also written as Cmin.
Place the 1st finger on the 3rd fret of the 1st string and 5th string in barre position. Place the 2nd finger on the 4th fret of the 2nd string. Place the 3rd finger on the 5th fret of the 4th string. Place the 4th finger on the 5th fret of the 3rd string. Strum from the 5th string down.
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