For example, there is no symbol for zero, and there is no way to calculate fractions. For larger numbers in the thousands, a bar placed on top of the letter or string of letters multiplies the numeral's value by 1,000. You would instead write XCIX (XC + IX, or 90+9). You can subtract 1 from 10 (IX) but you cannot subtract 1 from 100 there is no such number as IC. You also cannot subtract a number from one that is more than 10 times greater.
#ROMAN NUMBERS IN DIFFERENT LANGUAGES SYMBOLS PLUS#
But following the rule, it instead is XIII, or 10 plus 3. It's easy to see how the reasoning would be: 15 minus 1 minus 1. XC equals 100 minus 10, or 90, so XC plus V, or 90 plus 5, equals 95.Īlso, only one number can be subtracted from another. When it comes to subtracting amounts, only powers of 10 are subtracted, like I, X, or C, but not V or L. For example, do not use the same symbol more than three times in a row. There are a number of other rules related to Roman numerals. (Image credit: Michaela Stejskalova (opens in new tab) Shutterstock (opens in new tab)) A medieval clock in Prague, Czech Republic, has Roman numerals on its face.