Which Countries Use AM and PM Time Formats?

Discover which countries predominantly use AM and PM formats for timekeeping, including the cultural ties influencing this practice.

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Countries like the United States, Canada, and the Philippines commonly use the AM and PM time format. This system is utilized primarily in countries with cultural ties to Britain. In contrast, many other countries use the 24-hour clock for timekeeping. To adjust, simply convert PM hours by adding 12 to the hour (e.g., 2 PM becomes 14:00), while AM hours remain the same.

FAQs & Answers

  1. What is the AM and PM format? The AM and PM format divides the 24-hour day into two 12-hour segments, with AM for morning hours and PM for afternoon and evening hours.
  2. Why do some countries use the 24-hour clock? Many countries prefer the 24-hour clock for its clarity and to avoid confusion, especially in contexts like public transportation and military time.
  3. Are there any countries that use both AM/PM and 24-hour formats? Yes, some countries, like the Philippines, use both formats depending on context, with the AM/PM format being common in conversational use.
  4. How do you convert from AM/PM to 24-hour time? To convert PM hours to 24-hour time, add 12 to the hour (e.g., 2 PM becomes 14:00), while AM hours remain the same (e.g., 10 AM is 10:00).