What is Fahrenheit to Celsius Conversion?

Converting Fahrenheit to Celsius is essential when working with temperatures from the United States and a few other countries that use the Fahrenheit scale. Most of the world uses Celsius, making this conversion valuable for everyday communication, travel, cooking, and more.

Why You Need This Converter

This converter helps you in many situations:

Understand US weather - Interpret American weather forecasts and news reports
Follow recipes - Convert cooking temperatures from American cookbooks
Travel preparation - Know what temperatures to expect when visiting the US
Compare readings - Translate temperature data between different sources

The Conversion Formula

The mathematical formula is: °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9. Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature, then multiply by 5/9 to get Celsius. Water freezes at 32°F (0°C) and boils at 212°F (100°C).

Common Reference Points

Memorize these common conversions: 32°F = 0°C (freezing), 68°F = 20°C (room temperature), 98.6°F = 37°C (body temperature), and 212°F = 100°C (boiling).

How to Use the Fahrenheit to Celsius Converter

Quick Conversion Steps

Enter Fahrenheit value - Type the temperature in the left field
Read Celsius result - The conversion appears instantly on the right
Copy if needed - Use the copy button to save the result

Common Temperature Conversions

0°F = -18°C - Very cold winter day
32°F = 0°C - Freezing point of water
50°F = 10°C - Cool weather
68°F = 20°C - Comfortable room temperature
86°F = 30°C - Warm summer day
100°F = 38°C - Hot weather
212°F = 100°C - Boiling point of water

Swap Direction Feature

Click the swap button to reverse the conversion and convert Celsius to Fahrenheit. This is useful when you need to communicate temperatures back to someone using the Fahrenheit scale.

Quick Mental Estimate

For a rough estimate: subtract 30 and divide by 2. Example: 100°F → (100-30)÷2 = 35°C (actual: 37.8°C). Close enough for quick reference!

Converter Features

Instant Real-Time Conversion

Results update as you type, eliminating the need to press a calculate button. This live conversion makes comparing multiple temperatures quick and efficient.

Bidirectional Conversion

The swap button instantly reverses the conversion direction. Enter values in either field—the converter automatically calculates the corresponding temperature in the other scale.

One-Click Copy

Copy converted values directly to your clipboard with a single click. Paste results into documents, emails, messages, or other applications without manual selection.

Everyday Temperature Reference

The quick reference section shows common temperatures in both scales:

32°F (0°C) - Freezing point
68°F (20°C) - Room temperature
86°F (30°C) - Warm day
212°F (100°C) - Boiling point

Mobile-Optimized Design

The converter works seamlessly on smartphones and tablets. Large touch targets and responsive layout ensure accurate input on any screen size.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the formula to convert Fahrenheit to Celsius?

The formula is °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9. Subtract 32 from the Fahrenheit temperature, then multiply by 5/9 (or divide by 1.8) to get Celsius.

Why do some countries use Fahrenheit?

Fahrenheit was developed earlier (1724) and became standard in English-speaking countries. The United States retained it for everyday use, while most other countries switched to Celsius for international consistency.

Is there an easy way to estimate Fahrenheit to Celsius?

For quick mental math: subtract 30, then divide by 2. For 100°F: (100-30)÷2 = 35°C (actual: 37.8°C). This gives a rough estimate within a few degrees.

What temperature is the same in both Fahrenheit and Celsius?

The two scales intersect at -40 degrees. At this point, -40°F equals -40°C exactly.

How accurate are the conversions?

This converter calculates exact mathematical conversions using the precise formula. Results are rounded to 4 decimal places for practical use while maintaining high accuracy.

Can I convert negative temperatures?

Yes, the converter handles negative values for cold temperatures. Simply include the minus sign before your number.

Fahrenheit to Celsius