Roman Numeral Conversion Chart (1 to 1000)
To help you understand how to turn numbers into roman numerals, we've compiled this comprehensive conversion chart. Mastering the basics from 1 to 100 is the first step in using our roman letters converter effectively.
| Arabic | Roman | Arabic | Roman | Arabic | Roman |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | I | 11 | XI | 30 | XXX |
| 2 | II | 12 | XII | 40 | XL |
| 3 | III | 13 | XIII | 50 | L |
| 4 | IV | 14 | XIV | 60 | LX |
| 5 | V | 15 | XV | 70 | LXX |
| 6 | VI | 16 | XVI | 80 | LXXX |
| 7 | VII | 17 | XVII | 90 | XC |
| 8 | VIII | 18 | XVIII | 100 | C |
| 9 | IX | 19 | XIX | 500 | D |
| 10 | X | 20 | XX | 1000 | M |
How to Convert Numbers to Roman Numerals (Step-by-Step)
Converting numbers (technically called Arabic Numerals) to Roman letters follows a specific logic. Once you know the seven basic symbols, you can build almost any number.
The 7 Basic Symbols
- I = 1
- V = 5
- X = 10
- L = 50
- C = 100
- D = 500
- M = 1,000
The Three Golden Rules
1. The Addition Rule
When a smaller symbol follows a larger one, you add them.
Example:
VI (5 + 1) = 6.
2. The Subtraction Rule
When a smaller symbol appears before a larger one, you subtract the smaller from the
larger.
Example: IV (5 - 1) = 4;
XC (100 - 10) = 90.
3. The Three-Peat Rule
You should never use the same symbol more than three times in a row. For example, 4 is IV, not IIII.
Example Walkthrough: 1,994
To convert 1,994, break it down into its place values:
- 1,000 = M
- 900 = CM (1,000 minus 100)
- 90 = XC (100 minus 10)
- 4 = IV (5 minus 1)
- Result: MCMXCIV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is 4 in Roman numerals?
The Roman numeral for 4 is IV. While you might occasionally see "IIII" on old clock faces, "IV" is the standard subtractive form used globally.
What does the letter 'M' stand for?
In the Roman system, M stands for 1,000. It comes from the Latin word "mille," which is also the root of words like "millennium" and "kilometer."
How do you write 2025 in Roman numerals?
2025 is written as MMXXV (1000 + 1000 + 10 + 10 + 5).
What are Arabic Numerals?
"Arabic Numerals" refers to the standard digits we use today: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Most people search for "numbers to Roman," but they are actually converting from the Arabic system!
Why Use Our Roman Numeral Converter?
Writing out long dates or large numbers (like 3,888—MMMDCCCLXXXVIII) can be confusing and prone to errors. Our tool ensures:
- Instant Accuracy: No more second-guessing the subtraction rule.
- Large Range: Convert any number from 1 up to 3,999.
- Dual Conversion: This roman numeral translator works both ways: use it as a roman letters converter or a generator.
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Last updated: May 2026
Roman Numeral Converter Summary
- Convert Arabic numbers into Roman numerals
- Translate Roman numerals into numbers
- Free online converter tool
- Instant and accurate results
- Works on desktop and mobile