Cm to In Conversion Calculator
Click on the following link if you want to convert inches (in) to centimeters (cm)
History
The centimeter (cm) is a unit from the metric system, created during the French Revolution in the 1790s to simplify and standardize measurements. One centimeter equals 0.01 meters.
The inch (in) comes from the imperial system, which developed in medieval England and was based on human body parts, like the width of a thumb.
Since 1959, the inch has been officially set at exactly 2.54 centimeters, allowing precise conversions between the two systems.
Common Usage
- Centimeters are used for body measurements, clothing, schoolwork, and design across most of the world.
- Inches are still standard in the United States, Canada, and the UK, especially for construction, screens, and height.
For instance, if your height is 180 cm, that’s about 71 inches, or 5 feet 11 inches.
Centimeters to Inches Conversion
The formula for converting centimeters to inches is:
in = cm ÷ 2.54
Example:
Convert 50 cm to inches.
50 ÷ 2.54 = 19.69 in
So, 50 centimeters equal roughly 19.7 inches.
Conversion Table
| Centimeters (cm) | Inches (in) |
|---|---|
| 1 cm | 0.39 in |
| 5 cm | 1.97 in |
| 10 cm | 3.94 in |
| 20 cm | 7.87 in |
| 30 cm | 11.81 in |
| 40 cm | 15.75 in |
| 50 cm | 19.69 in |
| 60 cm | 23.62 in |
| 70 cm | 27.56 in |
| 100 cm | 39.37 in |
Fun Facts
- The inch was originally based on three grains of barley placed end to end.
- Most bicycle wheel sizes, like 26″ or 29″, are still measured in inches.
- The centimeter is officially part of the metric system, while the inch is part of the imperial system — they coexist because of history and habit.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many inches are in 1 centimeter?
One centimeter equals 0.3937 inches.
2. What is 100 cm in inches?
100 ÷ 2.54 = 39.37 inches.
3. How do I convert cm to inches in my head?
Divide by 2.5 for a quick estimate.
4. Why do TV screen sizes use inches, even in metric countries?
Because the global electronics industry adopted inches early on, and it has remained a standard.
5. Which system is more widely used, metric or imperial?
The metric system (centimeters, meters) dominates globally, while the imperial system (inches, feet) is mainly used in a few English-speaking countries.
