Which notes are in the C#sus2 chord?

C#sus2 contains the notes C#, D# and G#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 2 – 5.

Are C#sus2 and Dbsus2 the same chord?

Yes. C#sus2 and Dbsus2 are enharmonically identical — the spelling differs but the frets and keys are the same. Which name is used depends on the key of the piece.

C# suspended 2nd · Piano

C#sus2 Chord on Piano

The C#sus2 chord (C# suspended 2nd) is built from the notes C#, D# and G#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Dbsus2; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

C#sus2

Notes in this chord

C♯
D♯
G♯

Degrees: 1 – 2 – 5

Also written: Dbsus2

How to play

To play C#sus2 on piano, press C#, D# and G# together. In root position the lowest note is C#, and the finger numbers follow the keys left to right in the diagram.

Theory behind the chord

Suspended second chords swap the third for a second, giving an open, airy sound. Guitarists often let one shape ring across several bars because it fits over both major and minor harmony. On C#sus2 this structure sits on the root C#, so the degrees 1 – 2 – 5 map onto C#, D# and G#.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the C#sus2 chord?: C#sus2 contains the notes C#, D# and G#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 2 – 5.
Are C#sus2 and Dbsus2 the same chord?: Yes. C#sus2 and Dbsus2 are enharmonically identical — the spelling differs but the frets and keys are the same. Which name is used depends on the key of the piece.

Practise C#sus2 on your phone

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