Roman Numeral Converter
Roman Numeral Converter
Roman numerals are a numeral system from ancient Rome that remains in use today for various formal and traditional purposes.
Conversion Formula
The algorithm greedily subtracts the largest possible Roman numeral value repeatedly: 1000(M), 900(CM), 500(D), 400(CD), 100(C), 90(XC), 50(L), 40(XL), 10(X), 9(IX), 5(V), 4(IV), 1(I).
Step-by-Step Examples
2024 = MMXXIV
2000(MM) + 20(XX) + 4(IV)
1999 = MCMXCIX
1000(M) + 900(CM) + 90(XC) + 9(IX)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do Roman numerals work?
Roman numerals use letters (I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, M=1000). Placing a smaller numeral before a larger one means subtraction (IV=4, IX=9).
What is the largest Roman numeral?
Using standard notation, the largest is 3999 (MMMCMXCIX). Larger numbers historically used bars over letters to multiply by 1000.
Why is 4 written as IV and not IIII?
Subtractive notation (IV) became standard for brevity, though IIII was used historically and still appears on many clock faces.
Is there a Roman numeral for zero?
No. The Roman numeral system has no symbol for zero. The concept of zero was introduced later by Indian mathematicians.
Where are Roman numerals still used?
Clock faces, movie copyright dates, Super Bowl numbering, book chapter headings, and formal document outlines.