Which notes are in the C#sus4 chord?

C#sus4 contains the notes C#, F# and G#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 4 – 5.

Are C#sus4 and Dbsus4 the same chord?

Yes. C#sus4 and Dbsus4 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 4th · Piano

C#sus4 Chord on Piano

The C#sus4 chord (C# suspended 4th) is built from the notes C#, F# and G#. The keyboard diagram below shows exactly which keys to press. The same chord is also written Dbsus4; both spellings sound identical.

Chord diagrams

C#sus4

Notes in this chord

C♯
F♯
G♯

Degrees: 1 – 4 – 5

Also written: Dbsus4

How to play

To play C#sus4 on piano, press C#, F# 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 fourth chords replace the third with a fourth, so they sound unresolved on purpose. Releasing the fourth back down to the third is one of the oldest and most satisfying moves in songwriting. On C#sus4 this structure sits on the root C#, so the degrees 1 – 4 – 5 map onto C#, F# and G#.

Frequently asked questions

Which notes are in the C#sus4 chord?: C#sus4 contains the notes C#, F# and G#. Relative to the root these are the degrees 1 – 4 – 5.
Are C#sus4 and Dbsus4 the same chord?: Yes. C#sus4 and Dbsus4 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#sus4 on your phone

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