is 172 cm 5'7 or 5'8

2 min read 28-02-2025

Are you wondering whether 172 centimeters is 5 feet 7 inches or 5 feet 8 inches? The answer isn't as straightforward as you might think! Let's dive into the details of height conversion and clear up this common confusion.

Understanding Height Conversion: Centimeters to Feet and Inches

Converting between centimeters and feet/inches requires a bit of math. There are approximately 2.54 centimeters in every inch. Therefore, to convert centimeters to inches, you divide the number of centimeters by 2.54. To get the feet, you divide the total inches by 12.

However, the conversion isn't always perfect. Slight discrepancies can arise depending on the rounding used during the conversion process. This is why you might see slightly different results from different calculators or conversion tools.

Calculating 172 cm in Feet and Inches

Let's perform the calculation:

Convert centimeters to inches: 172 cm / 2.54 cm/inch ≈ 67.72 inches
Convert inches to feet and inches: 67.72 inches / 12 inches/foot ≈ 5 feet and 7.72 inches

This calculation shows that 172 cm is approximately 5 feet and 7.72 inches.

So, 5'7" or 5'8"? The Answer

Because 7.72 inches is closer to 8 inches than 7 inches, 172 cm is generally rounded up to 5 feet 8 inches (5'8").

While technically a little under 5'8", the difference is negligible for most practical purposes. Rounding up is the standard practice in these types of height conversions.

Why the Discrepancy? Rounding and Measurement Inaccuracies

The slight variation comes down to the rounding process. Different conversion tools might use different rounding methods, leading to slightly different results. It's also important to remember that height measurements themselves aren't perfectly precise. Slight variations can occur depending on the measuring instrument and technique used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Is 172 cm tall for a woman?

A: Whether 172 cm (approximately 5'8") is considered tall for a woman depends on various factors, including ethnicity and regional averages. It's above average height for women in many parts of the world.

Q: How accurate are online height conversion tools?

A: Online tools are generally accurate for everyday purposes, but remember they often rely on approximations and might produce slight variations depending on their rounding methods.

Q: What's the best way to measure my height accurately?

A: Use a measuring tape against a wall, standing straight with your feet together and head aligned. Ensure the tape is level and aligned correctly for accurate results. It is best to have someone assist you in this measurement.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while the precise calculation places 172 cm at roughly 5 feet 7.72 inches, it's generally accepted and rounded up to 5 feet 8 inches (5'8"). The minor discrepancies are due to rounding and the inherent imprecision in height measurement. Understanding the process of conversion helps clarify this common height conversion question.