P.m. Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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p.m.
[ˌpiː ˈɛm ]
Definition
time measurement
p.m. is an abbreviation for post meridiem, which means after noon. It is used to indicate the time between noon and midnight.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| p.m. |
Used when specifying the exact time of day after noon and before midnight. It is often used in formal or written contexts such as schedules, timetables, and appointments.
|
| afternoon |
Generally refers to the time between noon and evening. It is often used in casual conversation and can describe a segment of the day rather than a specific time.
|
Examples of usage
- It's 3 p.m. and I'm feeling hungry.
- The meeting is scheduled for 5 p.m.
- We will meet at the restaurant at 8 p.m.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Timekeeping
- The 12-hour clock system, which includes 'p.m.,' is used in many countries around the world, offering a clearer division of the day.
- Before the 12-hour system, many cultures utilized sundials for timekeeping, determining 'p.m.' as the hours after noon based on the sun's position.
Cultural Significance
- 'P.m.' is central in scheduling events, such as appointments and gatherings, influencing social activities worldwide.
- Certain cultures view the early evening as a time for family dinners, marking an important cultural distinction in how 'p.m.' hours are celebrated.
Technology
- Digital devices often use both a 12-hour and a 24-hour format, enabling those familiar with both to transition easily.
- The introduction of computer operating systems required clear delineation of time, separating 'a.m.' and 'p.m.' for user convenience.
Science
- In scientific contexts, 'p.m.' is used to contextualize timings for experiments when the day-to-night cycle can influence results.
- Biological clocks, which dictate various processes in living organisms, often align with 'p.m.' hours, indicating a peak in certain activities during these times.
Origin of 'p.m.'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from Latin, 'p.m.' stands for 'post meridiem,' meaning 'after midday.'
- The term began to be used in the 12th century, showcasing the adaptation of Latin into everyday language.
The term p.m. comes from Latin and stands for post meridiem, which translates to 'after midday' or 'after noon'. The use of a.m. and p.m. to indicate time of day can be traced back to the ancient Romans, who divided the day into 12 hours of daylight and 12 hours of darkness. The concept of using a.m. and p.m. has continued through the centuries and is now a common way to express time in the modern world.