CalculatorsConvertersDeveloperTextAll toolsDirectory
Submit your tool Sign in
Theme
Home/Answers/Developer
How-to

How do I convert a number to Roman numerals?

Short answer

Type a number into a browser-based Roman numeral converter and it returns the Roman numeral, so 2026 becomes MMXXVI. It also converts the other way, and because it runs on your device it is an instant, offline-friendly way to handle dates, clock faces, chapter numbers and outlines.

The seven symbols and the subtraction rule

Roman numerals use I, V, X, L, C, D and M for 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 500 and 1000. Symbols are added together left to right, except when a smaller symbol sits before a larger one, which means subtract, so IV is 4 and IX is 9. That subtraction rule is where hand conversion goes wrong, which is why a converter that applies it correctly is handy for anything beyond the simplest numbers.

Where the numerals still turn up

Roman numerals persist in copyright years on films, clock and watch faces, monarch and sequel names, book chapters and outline headings. Converting 2026 gives MMXXVI, and reading a numeral like MCMLXXXIV back as 1984 is the reverse job the tool also handles. Standard Roman numerals top out in the low thousands, which the converter respects.

Step by step

  1. Enter the number. Type the number you want to convert.
  2. Convert locally. The tool produces the Roman numeral in your browser.
  3. Copy or reverse. Copy the numeral, or enter a numeral to convert it back to a number.

Frequently asked questions

What is 2026 in Roman numerals?

MMXXVI. That is MM for 2000, XX for 20, and VI for 6.

Why is 4 written IV and not IIII?

The subtraction rule: a smaller symbol before a larger one is subtracted, so IV is 5 minus 1.

Is the conversion done online?

No. It runs entirely in your browser, so it works offline once the page has loaded.

Related answers