In the UK and Ireland, people typically use a different system of measurement for weight than the US. Instead of pounds or ounces, they use a unit of measurement called a stone. But for those unfamiliar with this system, it can be confusing to understand how many pounds are in one stone. In this ultimate guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about stones and pounds, including how to calculate between the two and common questions about the system.
What is a Stone?
A stone is a unit of measurement used in the UK and Ireland to measure weight. It equals 14 pounds, or 6.35 kilograms. The stone was historically used in trade to measure goods such as wool, but is now mainly used as a measure of body weight.
How to Convert Stones to Pounds and Vice Versa
Converting between stones and pounds is simple. To convert pounds to stones, just divide the number of pounds by 14. To convert stones to pounds, multiply the number of stones by 14. Here are a few examples:
- 140 pounds ÷ 14 = 10 stones
- 9 stones × 14 = 126 pounds
As you can see, it’s just a matter of basic arithmetic. If you’re dealing with odd numbers that don’t divide evenly by 14, you can use a calculator to get the precise conversion.
How to Use Stones and Pounds in the UK
In the UK, people will typically use stones and pounds to measure their body weight. For example, someone might say they weigh “12 stone 6 pounds” instead of “174 pounds”. This system may take some getting used to for those unfamiliar with it. Here’s a list of common conversions from pounds to stones to help you get a better sense of the system:
| Pounds | Stones and Pounds |
|---|---|
| 100 lbs | 7 stone 2 lb |
| 125 lbs | 8 stone 13 lb |
| 150 lbs | 10 stone 10 lb |
| 175 lbs | 12 stone 7 lb |
| 200 lbs | 14 stone 4 lb |
Why Use Stones Instead of Pounds?
You may be wondering why people in the UK use stones to measure weight instead of pounds. There are a few reasons for this. First, stones are a more convenient unit for measuring body weight. A stone is approximately the weight of a small bag of flour, so it’s easier to conceptualize than a pound. Additionally, because stones are a larger unit than pounds, they can provide a more accurate measurement of larger weights without requiring the use of decimals or fractions.
Common Questions About Stones and Pounds
How many pounds are in a half stone?
A half stone equals 7 pounds. To convert a half stone to pounds, just multiply by 14 and then divide by 2.
What is the abbreviation for stone?
The abbreviation for stone is “st”. For example, someone who weighs 10 stone 5 pounds might write it as “10st 5lb”.
Is it possible to convert stones to kilograms?
Yes, it’s possible to convert stones to kilograms. One stone equals approximately 6.35 kilograms. To convert stones to kilograms, just multiply the number of stones by 6.35.
What is the difference between a stone and a metric ton?
A metric ton is a much larger unit of measurement than a stone. One metric ton equals 1,000 kilograms, while one stone equals only 6.35 kilograms. To convert between the two, you would need to use a conversion factor of 157.473 stones per metric ton.
What is the highest number of stones and pounds?
In theory, there is no limit to the number of stones and pounds that could be measured using this system. However, for practical purposes, weights over 20 stones (280 pounds) are usually expressed in pounds or kilograms in the UK.
Conclusion
While it may seem confusing at first, the stone system is a simple way to measure weight in the UK and Ireland. By understanding the conversion between stones and pounds, you can easily communicate your body weight to others and understand weight measurements in the context of UK culture.