Convertisseur Centimètre en Pouce

This is a historical artifact from American television manufacturing dominance. When TVs were first mass-produced in the US, screen sizes were marketed in inches. As the industry globalized, the inch measurement became the de facto standard for marketing, even in metric countries. Manufacturers maintain this for consistency and because larger inch numbers (55") sound more impressive than centimeters (140cm).

First, divide total centimeters by 2.54 to get total inches. Then divide by 12 to get feet, with the remainder as inches. Example: 175 cm ÷ 2.54 = 68.9 inches. 68.9 ÷ 12 = 5 feet with 8.9 inches remaining, so 175 cm = 5'9". For quick estimates: 30 cm ≈ 1 foot.

Clothing sizes aren't just measurements - they're arbitrary designations that vary by country, brand, and style. A US size 8 isn't 8 inches of anything. Even when using measurements (like 32-inch waist), brands add ease differently. European sizes often use centimeters directly (size 50 = 50cm chest), but fit standards vary. Always use actual body measurements, not size numbers.

Use 2.54 cm = 1 inch exactly, and work in decimal inches rather than fractions until the final step. For example: 10 cm = 10 ÷ 2.54 = 3.937 inches. Then convert to fractions if needed: 3.937" ≈ 3 15/16". For woodworking, remember the kerf (blade width) and that lumber dimensions are nominal, not actual.

Yes, several industries use both. Photography uses inch-based sensor sizes but metric focal lengths. Bicycles have inch wheel sizes but metric frame measurements. Plumbing uses both depending on standards. Electronics often specify inch-based screen sizes but metric board dimensions. This dual usage requires professionals to be fluent in both systems.