Free Fahrenheit to Celsius Converter

Convert Fahrenheit to Celsius with this simple, accurate converter. Whether you're checking the weather, adjusting an oven, or understanding a fever, our tool gives you the exact Celsius equivalent in seconds.

1 °F = -17.22 °C

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Quick answer

To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32 and multiply by 5/9. Water freezes at 0°C (32°F) and boils at 100°C (212°F).

Formula & method

°C = (°F − 32) × 5/9

Temperature scales have an offset, so this is not a simple multiplication.

Fahrenheit to Celsius — common values

Fahrenheit (°F)Celsius (°C)
0 °F-17.78 °C
32 °F0 °C
50 °F10 °C
68 °F20 °C
72 °F22.22 °C
98.6 °F37 °C
100 °F37.78 °C
212 °F100 °C

Examples

Example 1: Freezing point of water
Input
32 °F
Result
0 °C
Why
The standard reference point where ice melts at sea level.
Example 2: Normal body temperature
Input
98.6 °F
Result
37 °C
Why
The typical healthy human body temperature used in medical diagnostics.
Example 3: Comfortable room temperature
Input
72 °F
Result
22.22 °C
Why
A widely accepted indoor climate for comfort in homes and offices.
Example 4: Boiling point of water
Input
212 °F
Result
100 °C
Why
The temperature at which water vapor bubbles form at standard atmospheric pressure.

Common mistakes

  • Treating temperature like a simple multiplication. Because the scales have an offset, you must add or subtract the constant — 0 °C is 32 °F, not 0 °F.
  • Converting in the wrong direction. This page goes Fahrenheit → Celsius; rearrange the formula to reverse it.

Frequently asked questions

What is the exact formula for Fahrenheit to Celsius?

The formula is C = (F − 32) × 5/9. You subtract 32 to account for the offset of the Fahrenheit scale's freezing point, then multiply by the ratio 5/9 because a Celsius degree is larger (100°C span vs 180°F span for the same temperature range).

At what temperature is Fahrenheit equal to Celsius?

At −40 degrees. This is the unique point where −40°F = −40°C, making it a useful reference for extreme cold conditions.

Why is the conversion formula so complicated?

The two scales have different starting points (water freezes at 32°F but 0°C) and different degree sizes (180°F versus 100°C for the same range). This creates an affine transformation, not a simple multiplier.

How many decimal places do I need for cooking temperatures?

For cooking, one decimal place is usually sufficient since ovens typically allow ±5°C/10°F variation. However, for scientific work or precise recipes, two decimal places are recommended.

Is 98.6°F really normal body temperature?

It's a widely used reference, but modern studies suggest normal body temperature varies between 36.1°C and 37.2°C (97°F to 99°F). The 98.6°F figure dates back to 1868 German research.

What temperature should I set my oven to if a recipe says 375°F?

375°F converts to approximately 190°C. Most metric ovens allow 5°C increments, so you would typically set it to 190°C or the nearest marking.

Sources & references

External references open in a new tab. We are independent and not affiliated with these organizations.

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