Ddim Guitar Chord
D Diminished · D–F–Ab
Ddim is the D diminished chord: D–F–Ab. Its sound is tense and unstable — stacked minor 3rds that work as dramatic passing chords.
You'll rarely sit on Ddim for a full bar — diminished chords are connectors. Classic uses: passing between the I and ii chords in Db major, or substituting for the V7♭9 a half-step below. The symmetrical shape repeats every three frets, so one grip gives you four chords.
The easiest way to play Ddim is the open-position shape (x x 0 1 x 1, low E string to high E string), which uses open strings and stays in the first few frets. Below you'll find 7 ways to play it across the neck, from open position to barre and shell voicings, with the theory behind the chord and the progressions it lives in.
How to Play Ddim: 7 Voicings
Frets are listed from the low E string to the high E string. x = don't play that string, 0 = open string.
Ddim Chord Theory
| Interval | R | ♭3 | ♭5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Note | D | F | Ab |
Ddim is built from the D minor scale.
Ddim Chord FAQ
What notes are in the Ddim chord?
Ddim contains 3 notes: D (R), F (♭3), Ab (♭5). The interval formula for a diminished chord is R–♭3–♭5.
What is the easiest way to play Ddim on guitar?
Use the open-position shape: x x 0 1 x 1 (frets listed from the low E string to the high E string, x = don't play that string). It uses open strings, so it needs the least finger strength.
Is Ddim a major or minor chord?
Ddim is built on a minor triad (D–F–Ab) with the ♭5 added, so it behaves as a minor-family chord.
What keys use the Ddim chord?
Ddim appears diatonically in F major (as vi), C major (as ii), and Bb major (as iii) — plus it's the home chord (i) of D minor.
Related Chords
Hear yourself play Ddim
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