Roman Numerals Converter
Convert numbers to Roman numerals and back. Supports 1 to 3999 with symbol breakdown and rules explained.
How to Use the Roman Numerals Converter
- Use Number to Roman: enter any number from 1 to 3999 — the Roman numeral appears instantly with a symbol-by-symbol breakdown.
- Use Roman to Number: type a Roman numeral (like MCMXCVIII) to convert it back to a number.
- Valid symbols are I, V, X, L, C, D, and M.
Formula & Method
Roman numerals use seven symbols: I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000
Additive rule: when a smaller symbol follows a larger one, add it (VI = 6). Subtractive rule: when a smaller symbol precedes a larger one, subtract it (IV = 4, IX = 9, XL = 40, XC = 90, CD = 400, CM = 900). No symbol repeats more than three times in a row.
Examples
| Number | Roman Numeral | Breakdown |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | IV | 5 - 1 |
| 42 | XLII | 40 + 1 + 1 |
| 99 | XCIX | 90 + 9 |
| 1998 | MCMXCVIII | 1000 + 900 + 90 + 5 + 1 + 1 + 1 |
| 2026 | MMXXVI | 1000 + 1000 + 10 + 10 + 5 + 1 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the basic Roman numeral symbols?
I = 1, V = 5, X = 10, L = 50, C = 100, D = 500, M = 1000. All other numbers are combinations of these.
Why is 4 written as IV and not IIII?
The subtractive rule: placing I before V means 5 - 1 = 4. This keeps numerals shorter. The same rule gives 9 = IX, 40 = XL, 90 = XC, 400 = CD, 900 = CM.
Is there a Roman numeral for zero?
No. The Roman system has no zero — the concept did not exist in Roman mathematics. The word "nulla" was sometimes used in medieval texts.
Why does the converter stop at 3999?
Standard Roman numerals max out at 3999 (MMMCMXCIX). Larger numbers require a vinculum (overline) notation meaning multiply by 1000, which is rarely used today.
Where are Roman numerals still used?
Clock faces, book chapters, movie sequels, Super Bowl numbers, monarch names (Elizabeth II), copyright dates in films, and building cornerstone inscriptions.
People Also Ask
What is 1998 in Roman numerals?
1998 is MCMXCVIII: M (1000) + CM (900) + XC (90) + V (5) + III (3).
What number is XL?
XL is 40. The X (10) before L (50) means 50 - 10 = 40 by the subtractive rule.
What is 2026 in Roman numerals?
2026 is MMXXVI: MM (2000) + XX (20) + VI (6).