The Meaning Behind PM and AM: A Guide to Time Telling - legacy

The Meaning Behind PM and AM: A Guide to Time Telling

I keep saying PM, but I have no idea what it stands for. Shouldn't it be AM or vice versa?

Time-telling has long been a universal language, but the increasing usage of 24-hour clocks and digital displays has created confusion among many in the US. The resulting gap in understanding between traditional 12-hour and 24-hour time-keeping conventions has sparked interest in learning more about the basics of time-telling. As people strive to stay informed and connected, the importance of grasping the meaning behind AM and PM has come to the forefront.

AM (Ante Meridiem) refers to the morning hours from 1 AM to 12 PM (noon).

With the increasing reliance on digital calendars and timekeeping devices, understanding the basics of AM and PM has become more crucial than ever. In today's fast-paced world, people from all walks of life, regardless of their age or occupation, must be aware of time-telling conventions to navigate their daily lives effectively. The rise of technology has made time-telling more accessible, but it has also led to a general misconception about the meaning behind PM and AM. Let's dive into the world of time-telling and explore the intricacies of this fundamental aspect of communication.



Understanding AM and PM begins with knowing the basics of a 12-hour clock face. A 12-hour clock face has two cycles: 1-12, with PM adding hours 13-24 to create a 24-hour system. Recognize the two main cycles:

Are there any historical links between the emergence of PM and AM?

The answer might not be what you think

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What does PM stand for?

This cycle continues seamlessly, allowing for easy conversion between the two time formats.

How it works

Yes, in Latin time-keeping, AM and PM originated from these exact Latin phrases, used to refer to the period of the day. AM stood for Ante Meridiem ('before midday') and PM for Post Meridiem ('after midday').

PM (Post Meridiem) covers the afternoon and evening hours from 1 PM to 12 AM.

Russell Piggot introduces AM and PM according to their Latin meanings.

Why it's gaining attention in the US

It is true that "AM" stands for Ante Meridiem (before midday), but PM is the Post Meridiem (after midday).