How do you write the number 4 in Roman numerals?

Write it as IV, which places I before V to indicate one less than five.

Why do some clocks show IIII instead of IV?

Clockmakers often use IIII for visual balance and tradition, though IV is the standard form outside clock faces.

Is IV an example of subtractive notation?

Yes. IV subtracts one from five. Other subtractive forms include IX for 9 and XL for 40.

Where is IV commonly used today?

In event names like Super Bowl IV, in legal section numbering, in musical movement labels, and in scientific notation such as Ti(IV).

Can I write 4 as IIII in regular writing?

Standard usage prefers IV. IIII appears mainly on clocks or in certain historical inscriptions.

How do you add IV with other numerals?

IV + I equals V. IV + II equals VI. IV + V equals IX after simplification, since 4 + 5 equals 9.

What numerals come before and after IV?

III comes before and V comes after in the Roman numeral sequence.

Romanumerals

IV Roman Numerals

Updated at: 09/17/2025

The numeral IV denotes the number four in the Roman system and illustrates the subtractive rule, where placing I before V reduces the value by one. This compact form appears across culture, from championship names to legal outlines and scientific notation.

III Roman Numerals V Roman Numerals

How to Read IV Roman Numerals?

Read IV as one before five. The I subtracts from V, giving a total of 4.

Breakdown of IV

IV
=
4

Together, they form

Roman Numeral Converter

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Examples of IV Roman Numerals

Championship Naming

Major events often use Roman numerals, such as Super Bowl IV, to mark the fourth edition and lend a classic feel to the branding.

Music Scores

Classical pieces label movements with Roman numerals. Movement IV indicates the fourth section of a symphony or sonata.

Chemistry Notation

Oxidation states can appear as Roman numerals, for example Ti(IV) for titanium in the plus four state in coordination compounds.

Legal Outlines

Briefs and statutes often structure sections using Roman numerals, where Section IV clearly marks the fourth major division.

Military Inscriptions

Ancient stone carvings may reference Legio IV or Unit IV to indicate the fourth legion or cohort in historical records.

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Roman Numerals Near IV

Number	Roman
2	II
3	III
4	IV
5	V
6	VI

Frequently Asked Questions

III Roman Numerals V Roman Numerals