C/E chord: C with the third in the bass (first inversion)

C/E is the C chord with the third in the bass (first inversion): E, C and G (1–3–5 / 3). C/E stacks the root C, the major third E and the perfect fifth G, with E in the bass (the major third of C).

In the formula, the numbers count steps of the major scale starting from the note that names the chord; "b" lowers a half step, "#" raises one — and a slash names the bass note.

C/E is the C major chord with E in the bass — the first inversion. The harmony is the same, but the bass becomes lighter and gains melodic direction.

The same chord on all four instruments

Where to use it

Melodic bass lines and smooth transitions between chords.

Part of the Inversions (slash) family.

Other chords in this family

See all chord types and qualities →

Updated October 20, 2026