The metric system is a widely used system of measurement that is used in most countries around the world. However, there are still a few countries that do not use the metric system as their primary system of measurement. In this article, we will explore which nations do not use the metric system and why.
- United States
The United States is one of the most notable countries that does not use the metric system as its primary system of measurement. Instead, the U.S. uses the English system, also known as the Imperial system. This system is based on units of measurement that were used in England before the adoption of the metric system in the 20th century.
The use of the English system in the United States dates back to the country’s founding, when the system was used in England’s American colonies. Despite efforts to transition to the metric system, including the Metric Conversion Act of 1975, the U.S. has continued to use the English system due to factors such as cost, tradition, and resistance to change.
Note that there are several instances where the metric system is being used in the United States, particularly in scientific and technical fields. For example, the pharmaceutical industry uses the metric system to measure drug dosages, and the automotive industry uses the metric system for measuring engine displacement and fuel efficiency. The U.S. military also uses the metric system for certain applications. In addition, some industries, such as the wine industry, have voluntarily adopted the metric system to conform to international standards. Overall, while the U.S. has not fully transitioned to the metric system, the system is still used in certain industries and contexts within the country.
- Myanmar (Burma)
Myanmar, also known as Burma, is another country that does not use the metric system as its primary system of measurement. Instead, the country uses a system of traditional units that are based on ancient Burmese measurements.
While Myanmar has made efforts to adopt the metric system, including a law that was passed in 2013 mandating the use of the metric system in some industries, the system has not yet been fully adopted.
- Liberia
Liberia is another country that does not use the metric system as its primary system of measurement. Instead, the country uses the English system, which was inherited from its history as a colony of the United States.
Efforts to adopt the metric system in Liberia have been slow, with some officials citing the cost and practicality of transitioning to the system as barriers. - United Kingdom
While the United Kingdom has officially adopted the metric system, the country still uses a mix of metric and Imperial units in daily life. For example, distances are often measured in miles and yards, while food and drink are sold in metric units.
The use of the Imperial system in the United Kingdom dates back to the country’s history as a colonial power, during which the system was widely used in its colonies. Despite the adoption of the metric system, the Imperial system remains a part of the country’s culture and traditions.
- Myanmar
Myanmar, also known as Burma, is another country that does not use the metric system as its primary system of measurement. Instead, the country uses a system of traditional units that are based on ancient Burmese measurements.
While Myanmar has made efforts to adopt the metric system, including a law that was passed in 2013 mandating the use of the metric system in some industries, the system has not yet been fully adopted.
- United States Minor Outlying Islands
The United States Minor Outlying Islands, a group of islands and atolls in the Pacific Ocean that are administered by the United States, also do not use the metric system as their primary system of measurement. Instead, the islands use the English system, which is inherited from the United States. - Palau
Palau, an island nation in the western Pacific Ocean, also does not use the metric system as its primary system of measurement. Instead, the country uses a mix of U.S. customary units and local traditional units.
Efforts to adopt the metric system in Palau have been slow, with some officials citing the cost and practicality of transitioning to the system as barriers.
Factors such as tradition, cost, and resistance to change can make the transition to the metric system difficult for some countries. However, as the global economy and international relations continue to expand, the use of the metric system may become more widespread in the future.
It is important to note that while some countries may not use the metric system as their primary system of measurement, they may still use the system in certain industries or for specific purposes. For example, the aviation industry typically uses the metric system for measuring altitude and distance.
For individuals who are accustomed to using the metric system, traveling or doing business in countries that use different systems of measurement can be challenging. It is important to research and understand the local units of measurement before traveling to a new country or engaging in international business.
In addition to the challenges of navigating different measurement systems, there may also be challenges in communicating across language barriers. Units of measurement can vary widely from country to country, and even within the same country depending on the industry or context. It is important to be clear and specific when communicating measurements to ensure that everyone involved understands the intended meaning.
While the metric system is widely used around the world, there are still several countries that do not use the system as their primary system of measurement. For individuals who are accustomed to using the metric system, it is important to be aware of the different systems of measurement that may be used in different countries or industries, and to be clear and specific when communicating measurements to ensure accuracy and understanding.
