Switching between metric and imperial units can be confusing at times. Whether you're working on a DIY project, following a recipe, measuring your height, or dealing with product dimensions, the ability to convert centimeters to inches and inches to centimeters is an essential skill. Our simple and accurate centimeters-to-inches converter makes the process quick and hassle-free.
An inch (in) is a unit of length primarily used in the imperial and United States customary systems. It is officially defined as exactly 25.4 millimeters. In the past, the inch was derived from the width of a human thumb or the length of three barleycorns. Today, it is a standard unit for measuring screen sizes, personal height, and many other applications, especially in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
How to Convert Centimeters to Inches
Converting from cm to inches is a straightforward process using a simple mathematical formula.
The Conversion Formula:
Inches = Centimeters ÷ 2.54
Alternatively, since 1 cm = 0.3937007874 inches, you can also multiply the centimeter value by 0.3937.
Example Calculation:
To convert 13 cm to inches:
Divide 13 by 2.54: 13 ÷ 2.54 = 5.1181.
Therefore, 13 cm ≈ 5.1181 inches.
The process for converting inches to centimeters is equally simple; it involves performing the reverse operation.
The Conversion Formula:
Centimeters = Inches × 2.54.
Example Calculation:
To convert 7 inches to cm:
Multiply 7 by 2.54: 7 × 2.54 = 17.78.
Therefore, 7 inches is equal to 17.78 centimeters.
Refer to our free online converter that provides detailed tables for all your conversion needs.
How do I convert a measurement from centimeters to inches?
To calculate any value from cm to inches, divide the number of centimeters by 2.54. For example, to find out how many inches are in 30 cm, calculate 30 / 2.54 = 11.811 inches.
What is the equivalent in inches for a common waist measurement like 75 cm?
A 75 cm waist is a common clothing measurement. To convert it, use the formula 75 cm ÷ 2.54 = 29.527 inches. Therefore, a 75 cm waist is approximately a US size 12 or UK size 14.
How can I calculate my height in centimeters if I know it in feet and inches?
First, convert your entire height to inches. To determine height in centimeters, change feet into inches (feet × 12), add the inches, and multiply the total by 2.54. e.g., 5 ft 2 in is (5 × 12) + 2 = 62 inches. Then, 62 in × 2.54 = 157.48 cm.
Is it correct to say that 1 inch is exactly equal to 4 centimeters?
No, this is a common misconception. 1 inch is exactly equal to 2.54 centimeters, not 4 cm. Therefore, 4 cm is only about 1.57 inches.