It is not possible for everyone to have access to a ruler at every single moment. So, if you have to measure how long 4 inches actually is, it is common to be confused and not really have a frame of reference.
Many tend to ignore the fact that several everyday objects around us measure 4” and offer a better idea of the actual measurement with proper visual cues.
To give you all the insights, we will discuss how long 4” is and compare it to 10 everyday objects.
How Much is 4 Inches in Other Metric Units?
There are various items in our everyday lives that measure 4”. However, an easier way to visualize that number is to assess it in other metric units.
4 Inch in Kilometers = 0.0001016 km
4 Inch in mm = 101.6 mm
4 Inch in Cm = 10.16 cm
4 Inch in foot = 0.333 feet
10 Things That Are 4 Inches Long
Many everyday items around you measure 4”. Although it is quite a small measurement, you might be surprised to know about the items that measure 4” that you most likely didn’t before.
1. Credit Card Width
The standard credit card that banks issue has a width of 4”. The width of a standard credit card is about 3.37 inches, which is only slightly under 4 inches. So, if you visualize adding just a little extra to the width of a credit card, you’ll have a solid estimate of 4 inches. Since credit cards are designed to be compact and portable, that’s one of the main reasons it is pretty easy to see and handle them and assess how much 4” measures.
2. A Post-It Note
There are a lot of Post-it note variations available in the market. While it is easier for you to get confused, the standard square version of these stationary items measures 4×4 inches. So, if you pick up a standard square Post-It note, you’re holding something that is precisely 4 inches on each side. These come in handy for measuring 4”, especially when you don’t have access to a ruler but need one. They are also available in bright colors, making it easier for you to notice them easily.
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3. An Adult’s Hand Width
For many adults, the width of a hand, measured across the knuckles, can range from about 3.5 to 4 inches. This measurement may vary based on individual hand size, but if you spread your fingers slightly, the distance across the knuckles on most adult hands comes close to 4 inches. This natural reference can be especially handy when you’re estimating distances on the go.
4. A Standard Coffee Stirrer
If you are a coffee fanatic and have a coffee stirrer with you, you’d be surprised to know that most of the standard coffee stirrers measure 4” in length. Coffee stirrers are thin, straight, and easy to handle, providing an ideal measurement reference for 4 inches. These stirrers are designed for single use and fit comfortably in a coffee cup, so they serve as a practical tool to visualize 4 inches. Also, even if you don’t have one at home, you could see one in your closest coffee shop.
Also Read: How Long is 50 Feet? (10 Things That Are 50 Feet Long)
5. Four Paperclips
Most of the standard-sized paperclips available on the market are around 1 inch in size. So, if you line up four of these paperclips, end to end, that will add up to around 4 inches. Paperclips are convenient, everyday items often found in desks and offices. Since they’re easy to arrange, they provide an accurate way to measure short lengths, allowing you to visualize 4 inches precisely.
6. Golf Tees
If you are a golfer and frequent the golf course quite often. In that case, you can visualize the golf tees as your reference for measuring 4”. The standard length of a golf tee is around 2.1 inches, so if you stack two of them together, that amounts to around 4”. This is hands down one of the easiest ways to assess how long 4” is.
Also Read: How Long is 5 Inches? (10 Things That Are 5 Inches Long)
7. A Pack of Sticky Notes
If you have a pack of 100 or so sticky notes, the stack usually measures about 4 inches in height. Since sticky notes are thin but stackable, the overall thickness of the entire pad can give you a decent measure of 4 inches. This might vary slightly depending on the brand and thickness of the paper, but for the most part, a typical stack provides a reliable estimation of this length.
8. A Toothbrush Handle
The compact, travel-size toothbrushes that are available in the market usually measure up to 4 inches. Since these toothbrushes are meant to be portable, they are designed to be small and convenient, making them a perfect representation of 4 inches. A travel toothbrush offers a decent approximation for this short distance if you’re ever without a ruler.
Also Read: How Long is 10 Inches? (10 Things That Are 10 Inch Long)
9. iPhone 5
You might not have access to one readily, but if you have seen an iPhone 5 in the past, its display measures around 4”. To be more precise, the diagonal length of the iPhone 5 is around 4”. What’s fascinating about it is that the length is exactly 4”, without any alterations, giving you an exact assessment of how long 4” actually is.
10. Width of a Soda Can
Another standard way to assess and measure 4” is with the width of a soda can. A typical soda can’s diameter (width across) is close to 4 inches. If you’re holding a can, you’re looking at something close to this length, making it an easy reference in a pinch. So, the next time you have to assess the length of 4”, you can bring a soda can and use that as a reference.
Also Read: How Long is 7 Inches? (10 Things That Are 7 Inches Long)
Final Words
Given how small 4” is, assessing the actual length is often confusing, especially concerning everyday items. To make things easier for you, we have sorted out a list of ten items that you will more or less be able to assess to get an idea of how long 4” is in real time. With this guide, you’re now equipped to recognize and utilize the length of 4 inches in various contexts, enhancing your ability to estimate lengths intuitively.
