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Roman Numeral Converter

Convert between Roman numerals and Arabic numbers.

Number → Roman

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Roman → Number

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Roman Numeral Reference

I
1
V
5
X
10
L
50
C
100
D
500
M
1000

📘 How It Works

1

Symbol-Value Mapping

Roman numerals use 7 symbols: I(1), V(5), X(10), L(50), C(100), D(500), M(1000). Combinations extend the range to 3999.

2

Subtractive Notation

Smaller values before larger ones indicate subtraction: IV=4 (5-1), IX=9 (10-1), XL=40 (50-10), XC=90, CD=400, CM=900.

3

Number to Roman

Starting from 1000, repeatedly subtract the largest possible value and append its symbol. Continue until the number reaches zero.

4

Roman to Number

Read left to right: if current symbol is less than next, subtract it; otherwise add it. Sum all values for the result.

5

Validation

Only valid Roman numeral characters (I, V, X, L, C, D, M) are accepted. Invalid characters trigger an error message.

💡 Common Use Cases

Year Conversion

Convert years for formal documents, movie credits, or building cornerstones. 2024 = MMXXIV.

Book Chapters & Outlines

Academic papers and legal documents often use Roman numerals for major sections (Chapter I, II, III).

Clock Reading

Many clocks and watches display Roman numerals. Quickly convert to read unfamiliar numerals.

Royal & Papal Names

Understand numbering for historical figures: Queen Elizabeth II, Pope John Paul II, Louis XIV.

Super Bowl & Events

Major events like the Super Bowl use Roman numerals (Super Bowl LVIII = 58). Convert to verify.

Educational Learning

Students learning Roman numerals can check their homework and understand the conversion rules.

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