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CXXXVIII Roman Numeral – What is 138 in Roman Numerals?

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How to Convert 138 to Roman Numerals (Step-by-Step Breakdown)

The concept of CXXXVIII Roman Numerals is essential in mathematics and helps in solving real-world and exam-level problems efficiently. Roman numerals like CXXXVIII appear in clock faces, outlines, history notes, and even in tattoos, making it important for students to understand both their value and construction.


Understanding CXXXVIII Roman Numerals

CXXXVIII Roman Numerals represent the decimal number 138. In Roman numerals, numbers are formed by combining letters with set values: I=1, V=5, X=10, L=50, C=100, D=500, and M=1000. This system is widely used in historic inscriptions, naming chapters, and describing years in older texts. Learning how to read and write CXXXVIII helps with both exams and understanding everyday uses.


What is CXXXVIII in Numbers and Words?

CXXXVIII in Roman numerals is equal to 138 in the Hindu-Arabic (decimal) number system. In words, it is written as "one hundred thirty-eight." To say it in English: CXXXVIII = 138 = One Hundred Thirty-Eight.


Breakdown of CXXXVIII Roman Numerals

To convert CXXXVIII Roman Numerals to numbers, break it into parts and add their values:

1. C = 100

2. XXX = 10 + 10 + 10 = 30

3. VIII = 5 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 8

4. Add them: 100 + 30 + 8 = 138

So, CXXXVIII = 138.


Here’s a helpful table to understand CXXXVIII Roman Numerals more clearly:


Roman Numerals from 130 to 140

Roman Numeral Number In Words
CXXX 130 One Hundred Thirty
CXXXI 131 One Hundred Thirty-One
CXXXII 132 One Hundred Thirty-Two
CXXXIII 133 One Hundred Thirty-Three
CXXXIV 134 One Hundred Thirty-Four
CXXXV 135 One Hundred Thirty-Five
CXXXVI 136 One Hundred Thirty-Six
CXXXVII 137 One Hundred Thirty-Seven
CXXXVIII 138 One Hundred Thirty-Eight
CXXXIX 139 One Hundred Thirty-Nine
CXL 140 One Hundred Forty

This table shows how CXXXVIII fits among Roman numerals from 130 to 140, which is helpful for quick reference and revision.


How to Convert Numbers to Roman Numerals: Example

Let’s convert 138 to a Roman numeral, step by step:

1. Find the largest Roman numeral less than or equal to 138: C = 100

2. Subtract 100 from 138: 138 – 100 = 38

3. Next largest Roman numeral less than or equal to 38: XXX = 30

4. Subtract 30 from 38: 38 – 30 = 8

5. Next, for 8: V = 5

6. Subtract 5 from 8: 8 – 5 = 3

7. For 3: I + I + I = 3

So, 138 = C + XXX + V + I + I + I
Final answer: 138 = CXXXVIII

Practice Problems

  • Write 139 in Roman numerals.
  • Breakdown CXXXVI into its parts and value.
  • Convert “One hundred thirty-four” into Roman numerals.
  • If you see CXXXVIII on a clock, what time could it be referring to?
  • Is CXL bigger or smaller than CXXXVIII?

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Mixing up the order of numerals (e.g., writing XXXC instead of CXXX).
  • Using subtraction instead of only addition (CXXXVIII is all addition: do not write as CXL – II).
  • Leaving out one or more digits in the breakdown (e.g., forgetting to add three I’s for 8).
  • Confusing similar numerals like CXXVIII (128) and CXXXVIII (138).

Real-World Applications

You can spot CXXXVIII Roman Numerals in daily life: on old clock faces, in book chapters, movie sequels, and decorative outlines. They are also popular choices for meaningful tattoos or to mark historical dates. Practicing Roman numeral conversion prepares students for questions in board exams and helps with number pattern recognition in various fields. Vedantu helps students see how maths applies beyond the classroom and keeps learning interesting and relevant.


We explored the idea of CXXXVIII Roman Numerals, their meaning, how to break them down to numbers, and real-life uses. Practice converting and spotting Roman numerals to get ready for maths exams and sharpen your pattern recognition. Keep building your skills with more Vedantu resources.


FAQs on CXXXVIII Roman Numeral – What is 138 in Roman Numerals?

1. What are CXXXVIII Roman numerals?

CXXXVIII is the Roman numeral representation of the number 138. It combines the symbols C (100), XXX (30), and VIII (8) using the addition principle of Roman numerals.

2. How do you write CXXXVIII in words and numbers?

CXXXVIII in numbers is 138. In words, it is written as "one hundred thirty-eight" according to English numbering conventions.

3. How is CXXXVIII formed according to Roman numeral rules?

  • C = 100
  • XXX = 10 + 10 + 10 = 30
  • VIII = 5 + 1 + 1 + 1 = 8
Adding these values gives 100 + 30 + 8 = 138.

4. What is the significance of understanding CXXXVIII in exam preparation?

Knowing how to read and write CXXXVIII correctly is important for solving questions related to Roman numerals in board and competitive exams, where accuracy and speed are valued.

5. How can students quickly convert 138 to Roman numerals?

To convert 138 to Roman numerals:

  • Break the number into hundreds, tens, and units: 100 + 30 + 8.
  • Write each value using Roman symbols: C + XXX + VIII.
  • Combine them for the final numeral: CXXXVIII.

6. What common mistakes should students avoid when writing CXXXVIII?

Students often confuse CXXXVIII (138) with similar numerals like CXXVIII (128) or misplace symbols causing errors. Always remember the correct order and addition principle in Roman numerals to avoid mistakes.

7. Why is the sequence of letters crucial in writing CXXXVIII?

The letter sequence in Roman numerals follows specific rules to represent values correctly. Changing the sequence can alter the numeral’s meaning. For example, CXXXVIII is 138, but rearranging letters will not correspond to the same number.

8. Are there any alternative ways to write CXXXVIII in Roman numerals?

Roman numerals have standard forms without alternative valid variations for numbers like 138. The correct, universally accepted representation is CXXXVIII.

9. How are Roman numerals like CXXXVIII used in daily life?

Roman numerals such as CXXXVIII appear in clocks, book chapter headings, movie sequels, outlines, and tattoos, providing a classical and stylistic way of presenting numbers.

10. Why is understanding the concept of Roman numerals important in the CBSE/NCERT syllabus?

The CBSE/NCERT syllabus includes Roman numerals to build strong numerical foundation skills, enhance number sense, and prepare students for related questions in exams where Roman numerals remain relevant.

11. How do examiners assess answers involving Roman numerals like CXXXVIII?

Examiners check for correct symbol usage, proper sequencing, and adherence to Roman numeral rules. Accurate breakdown and conversion reflecting 138 as CXXXVIII ensures full marks.

12. What common confusions occur among students regarding Roman numerals close to CXXXVIII?

Students often mix up CXXXVIII (138) with CXXVIII (128) or misunderstand the addition versus subtraction rules in numerals like IX or XL. A stepwise approach helps resolve these misunderstandings.

13. Can learning Roman numerals enhance mathematical skills beyond number conversion?

Yes, learning Roman numerals improves pattern recognition, historical numeracy, and critical thinking, which helps in understanding different number systems and their applications.