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Guitar Chord Cm7b5: Structure, Notes and Theory

Cm7b5 — a chord built on the note “C” with a soft diminished color and a direction toward resolution. Sounds great in minor modes and jazz harmony.

To view possible positions and quickly find the most comfortable chord shape, use the interactive fretboard. You can change the guitar tuning, fretboard orientation, and finger display. Detailed instructions on how to use and customize the tool can be found on the main chord navigator page — make the most of it for your convenience.

Cm7b5 — Position 1 of 6
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Formula and Structure of the Cm7b5 Chord

Interval formula from the root note: 1 — b3 — b5 — b7. The chord consists of the following notes:

  • C — unison and the main tonal anchor.

  • Eb — minor third with a melancholic character and gentle lyricism.

  • Gb — diminished fifth with tritone tension, best used cautiously in the bass.

  • Bb — minor seventh with dominant pull toward the tonic.

Together, these notes form the harmonic foundation of the Cm7b5 chord, defining its sound and role in the musical context.

Alternative Names for the Cm7b5 Chord

This chord may appear under different names:

  • Cø7

  • Cø

All variants refer to the same harmonic structure.

Using the Cm7b5 Chord

Place the b5 above the bass to soften the character. Add the 9 or 11 for extension, spacing them apart from the b3 and b7. Fits well in minor II–V–I and jazz ballads.

Conclusion

Cm7b5 is an expressive and versatile chord. Learn several fingerings, experiment with different positions and voice spacing, then try weaving it into your own playing — this will help you quickly find your unique tone.