Gaug Guitar Chord
G Augmented · G–B–D#
Gaug is the G augmented chord: G–B–D#. Its sound is dreamlike and unsettled — the raised 5th makes it float, perfect for transitions.
Gaug raises the 5th of G major by a half-step, splitting the octave into equal major 3rds. Like the diminished chord it's symmetrical — the same shape three frets up spells another augmented chord. Songwriters use it to lift from I toward IV or vi (think the intro of "Oh! Darling").
The easiest way to play Gaug is the open-position shape (3 2 1 0 0 x, low E string to high E string), which uses open strings and stays in the first few frets. Below you'll find 8 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 Gaug: 8 Voicings
Frets are listed from the low E string to the high E string. x = don't play that string, 0 = open string.
Gaug Chord Theory
| Interval | R | 3 | #5 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Note | G | B | D# |
Gaug is built from the G major scale.
Gaug Chord FAQ
What notes are in the Gaug chord?
Gaug contains 3 notes: G (R), B (3), D# (#5). The interval formula for a augmented chord is R–3–#5.
What is the easiest way to play Gaug on guitar?
Use the open-position shape: 3 2 1 0 0 x (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 Gaug a major or minor chord?
Gaug is built on a major triad (G–B–D#) with the #5 added, so it behaves as a major-family chord.
What keys use the Gaug chord?
Gaug appears diatonically in G major (as I), D major (as IV), and C major (as V) — plus E minor, its relative minor key.
Related Chords
Hear yourself play Gaug
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