Frequently Asked Questions
This tool can accurately convert any number from 1 to 3,999. Numbers larger than this require a different notation with a bar over the symbols, which is not standard.
Roman numerals use letters as symbols for numbers. They are added together from left to right, but when a smaller symbol appears before a larger one, it is subtracted (e.g., IV = 4, IX = 9).
While both forms were used historically, IV (subtractive notation) became the standard for conciseness. IIII is still seen on some clocks, but modern convention prefers the subtractive form.
The values of these symbols are based on five (5, 50, 500), so repeating them is unnecessary. For instance, two Vs (VV) is just ten, which is already represented by X.
No, the concept of zero was not a part of the original Roman numeral system. It was later developed in other numbering systems.
Yes, the standard subtractive pairs are IV (4), IX (9), XL (40), XC (90), CD (400), and CM (900). These pairs are the only ones used in modern Roman numerals.
