Curious Jr By PW

40 in Roman Number : How to Write 40 in Roman Numerals

40 in Roman number 40 is written as XL. In Roman numerals, X means 10 and L means 50, and when a smaller number is placed before a larger one, it is subtracted. So, XL means 50 − 10 = 40. This is why 40 in Roman numerals, forty in Roman numerals, and roman letter 40 are all written as XL, not XXXX, because Roman numeral rules do not allow repeating the same symbol more than three times.
authorImageShivam Singh7 Jan, 2026
40 in Roman Number

What is XL Roman Numeral?

XL Roman numeral represents the number 40. In Roman numerals, X means 10 and L means 50. When a smaller numeral is placed before a larger one, it is subtracted. Therefore, XL = 50 − 10, which equals 40.

The Roman numeral XL represents the number 40.

In Roman numerals:

  • X = 10

  • L = 50

When a smaller numeral comes before a larger numeral, it means subtraction.
So, XL = 50 − 10 = 40.

Therefore:

  • XL Roman numerals = 40

  • Roman letter 40 is written as XL

Read more: XXVI in Roman Numerals

40 in Roman Numerals

The number 40 in Roman numerals is written as XL.

Here is a quick summary:

  • 40 = XL

    Forty in Roman numerals = XL

  • Roman number 40 = XL

  • Roman letter 40 = XL

Students often make the mistake of writing 40 as XXXX, but this is incorrect. Roman numeral rules do not allow repeating the same symbol more than three times in a row.

How to Write 40 in Roman Numerals

To understand how to write 40 in Roman numerals, follow these simple steps:

  1. Write the Roman values:

    • X = 10

    • L = 50

  2. Since 40 is 10 less than 50, place X before L.

  3. Apply the subtraction rule:

    • XL = 50 − 10

So, 40 in Roman numerals is written as XL.

This method helps avoid writing incorrect forms like XXXX.

Read More: Number Names 1 to 30

Rules for Writing Roman Numerals

To correctly write XL Roman numerals and other numbers, you must know these basic rules:

  1. Addition Rule
    When a smaller numeral comes after a larger one, you add.

    • Example: VI = 5 + 1 = 6

  2. Subtraction Rule
    When a smaller numeral comes before a larger one, you subtract.

    • Example: XL = 50 − 10 = 40

  3. No Repetition More Than Three Times
    Symbols like I, X, and C cannot be repeated more than three times.

    • Correct: XXX = 30

    • Incorrect: XXXX = 40

  4. Only Certain Letters Can Be Subtracted

    • I can be subtracted from V and X

    • X can be subtracted from L and C

    • C can be subtracted from D and M

Using these rules ensures you always write roman number 40 correctly as XL.

Read More:  XXV Roman Numerals

Numbers Close to XL in Roman Numerals

Understanding numbers near 40 in Roman numerals makes learning easier:

Number

Roman Numeral

38

XXXVIII

39

XXXIX

40

XL

41

XLI

42

XLII

45

XLV

49

XLIX

50

L

This table shows how XL Roman numerals fit naturally between XXXIX and XLI.

Read More: Before Number Concept

40 in Roman Numerals Solved Examples

Let us look at some solved examples related to roman letter 40.

Example 1:
Write forty in Roman numerals.
Solution:
Forty = 40
40 = XL
✔ Answer: XL

Example 2:
Is XXXX the correct Roman numeral for 40?
Solution:
No. Roman numerals do not allow repeating X four times.
Correct form is XL.

Example 3:
What is XL − X?
Solution:
XL = 40
X = 10
40 − 10 = 30
30 in Roman numerals = XXX

These examples help clarify how 40 in Roman numerals works in practice.

40 in Roman Numerals Practice Questions

Try these practice questions to test your understanding:

  1. Write 40 in Roman numerals.

  2. What does XL stand for?

  3. Which rule is used to write XL?

  4. Convert XL to numbers.

  5. Write Roman numerals for 39 and 41.

Answers:

  1. XL

  2. 40

  3. Subtraction rule

  4. 40

  5. XXXIX and XLI

Regular practice helps students remember how to write 40 in Roman numerals easily.

Also Read: Brackets in Maths

Make Maths Fun and Simple for Your Child with CuriousJr’s Online Tuition

Does your child often feel stuck while solving maths problems or lose interest because concepts seem confusing? Topics like Roman numerals, multiplication tricks, and word problems can be tough when the basics aren’t clear.

At CuriousJr, we make maths enjoyable and easy to understand. Our mentors guide children step by step in live, interactive classes. Even challenging topics become simple and approachable.

Here’s what makes CuriousJr’s maths online tuition for kids special:

  • Interactive Lessons: Children actively participate in classes instead of just watching.

  • Two-Teacher Model: One mentor teaches, while the other clears doubts anytime.

  • Weekly Progress Reports & PTMs: Keep parents informed about their child’s growth.

  • Syllabus: Covers CBSE, ICSE, and other State Board curricula.

Book a demo class today with CuriousJr’s online maths tuition.

40 in Roman Number FAQs

What is roman number 40?

Roman number 40 is written as XL.

How do you write forty in Roman numerals?

Forty in Roman numerals is written as XL.

Why is 40 written as XL and not XXXX?

Because Roman numeral rules do not allow repeating a symbol more than three times.

What does XL Roman numerals mean?

XL means 50 − 10, which equals 40.

Is XL the Roman letter 40?

Yes, XL is the Roman letter for 40.
Curious Jr By PW

Curious Jr By PW

We understand that every student has different needs and capabilities, which is why we create such a wonderful and unique curriculum that is the best fit for every student.