What Does an Apostrophe Symbol After a Number Mean?

The apostrophe symbol (‘) placed after a number typically indicates the measurement of feet or minutes, depending on the context in which it is used.

For instance, in construction or carpentry, you might see measurements written as 5′ 10″. Here, the apostrophe signifies feet, while the quotation mark indicates inches. In this example, it means 5 feet and 10 inches tall.

In a different context, such as time, you might see something like 30′ which would indicate 30 minutes. This shorthand can be particularly useful in various fields such as sports, music, and cooking, where time and measurement are often referenced.

Remember that while the apostrophe may seem simple, its meaning can vary greatly based on the scenario. So always consider the context to grasp its significance accurately.

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