Augmented Chords

Mysterious, floating chords that create ambiguity and tension

Construction

Augmented Chord Formula

Root - Major 3rd - Augmented 5th

Or in semitones: 0 - 4 - 8

Augmented chords are built by taking a major chord and raising the 5th by a half step. This creates a floating, ambiguous sound with no clear sense of resolution.

Characteristics
  • Symmetrical: Each note is 4 semitones apart
  • Ambiguous: No clear tonal center
  • Mysterious: Creates uncertainty and suspense
  • Chromatic: Often used in chromatic progressions