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n Donyou know what the translation of the Roman numerals XLVInis?
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nThesenletters are the most commonly used Roman numerals:
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nI =n1
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nV =n5
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nX =n10
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nL =n50
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nC =n100
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nD =n500
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nM =n1,000
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nThenrules are pretty simple:
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nYoun may use up to three of the same numeral to create a larger numeral.n For example, here are the first three Roman numerals:
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nI,nII, III =n1, 2, 3
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nAn smaller numeral in front of a larger numeral is subtracted from thatn numeral. This is how we avoid using four of the same numeral. Forn example:
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nIV =n4 NOTE: 4 is NOT IIII
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nIX =n 9 NOTE: 9 is NOT VIIII
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nXL =n 40 NOTE: 40 is NOT XXXX
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nAn smaller numeral after a larger numeral is added to that numeral. Forn example:
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nVI =n6
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nLX =n60
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nLXI =n61
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nSo…cannyou figure out what XLVInmeans?
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nWhatnare Roman numerals used for?
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nArabicnnumerals (0, 1, 2, 3, and so on) are much easier to use, to add andnsubtract and so on, than Roman numerals, and since the 14thnCentury, Roman numerals have been pretty much abandoned. However,nthey are still used in a few ways and places:
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nInn outlines
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nForn kings and queens and other leaders who share the same name (such asn Elizabeth I and Elizabeth II)
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nNumberingn the pages before the main body of a book, or book volumes
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nTon show numbers in an especially decorative, old-fashioned, or formaln way
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n A.nOn clock faces
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n B.nOn monuments
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nForn chords, in music
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nTon number certain annual events, such as the Superbowl!
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nAnswer:nXKVI meansn46. This year is the 46thnannual Super Bowl.
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nFornmore on Roman numerals, check out Numericana.
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nOrntake the Roman Numeral Challenge on Fact Monster.
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nBy the way…if you watch the Super Bowl, enjoy the game! And the half-time show, and the commercials!
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nAlsonon this date:
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nMeasurements and Records Day
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nMexico’s Constitution Day
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