Convert numbers to and from Roman numerals
Numbers above 3,999 use vinculum notation: a line above a numeral multiplies its value by 1,000.
So CMXCIXDCLXXVII = 999,677.
Did you know?
The Subtraction Rule: Elegant Shorthand
The subtraction rule is what makes Roman numerals clever rather than just tedious. Instead of writing IIII for 4, you write IV: "one before five." Instead of DCCCC for 900, you write CM: "one hundred before one thousand." Only six subtractive pairs exist (IV, IX, XL, XC, CD, CM), and once you know them, you can read any Roman numeral instantly.
Read more →Sequel Numbering: Rocky to Final Fantasy
Rocky II. Star Wars Episode IV. The Godfather Part III. Final Fantasy XVI. Movie and game franchises love Roman numerals because they make sequels feel grander. "Rocky 2" sounds like more of the same; "Rocky II" sounds like an event. Video games pushed it furthest — Final Fantasy has reached XVI (16), and the numerals are now inseparable from the brand.
Read more →Where do Roman numerals come from?
It is thought Roman numerals come from hand signals and tally marks. The stroke I represents a finger, the V represents the gap between thumb and fingers for five, and the X represents hands crossed for ten. The L, C, D, and M come from modifications of Greek letters like chi, theta, and phi to represent 50, 100, 500, and 1,000. Over time, these marks changed into the Latin letters people recognize today. There is no 0 in the Roman alphabet, as the concept for the number 0 didn't fully develop until India invented it around 600 CE / 10600 HE.