How to Convert Pounds to Kati (catty) (lb to kati)
Weight units matter at the wet market, where older stalls and Chinese medical halls still quote prices per kati or tael, and when following American recipes in ounces and pounds. This guide shows how to convert pounds into kati (catty) by hand, with examples and a quick-reference table.
The conversion
To convert pounds to kati (catty), multiply the value by 0.749999785. To go the other way, divide by the same number (or multiply by 1.3333337155). For a quick estimate, multiply by about 0.75.
Kati (catty) = pounds × 0.749999785
Worked examples
- 3 lb = 2.25 kati
- 12.5 lb = 9.375 kati
- 75 lb = 56.25 kati
Pounds to Kati (catty) table
| Pounds | Kati (catty) |
|---|---|
| 1 lb | 0.75 kati |
| 2 lb | 1.5 kati |
| 5 lb | 3.75 kati |
| 10 lb | 7.5 kati |
| 20 lb | 15 kati |
| 25 lb | 18.75 kati |
| 50 lb | 37.5 kati |
| 100 lb | 75 kati |
| 250 lb | 187.4999 kati |
| 500 lb | 374.9999 kati |
| 1,000 lb | 749.9998 kati |
Common questions
Is lb to kati exact?
The factors used here are the internationally defined values where they exist; results are rounded for display only.
How do I convert back?
Use the Kati (catty) to Pounds converter.
Mistakes to avoid
Multiplying when you should divide
Converting to a smaller unit gives a bigger number, and converting to a larger unit gives a smaller one. If your answer moves the wrong way, you have inverted the factor.
Forgetting squared and cubed units
Area and volume factors are the length factor squared or cubed, so 1 m² is about 10.76 sq ft, not 3.28.
Rounding the factor too early
Using 3 instead of 3.28 for feet per metre introduces an error of almost 9% before you have started.
Background
Writing the units next to every number while you work is the simplest way to avoid mistakes. If the units do not cancel to leave the one you want, the calculation is set up wrongly.
Many conversion factors are exact by definition. The inch has been defined as exactly 2.54 centimetres since 1959, and the pound as exactly 0.45359237 kilograms, so conversions involving them can be as precise as you need.
For everyday use, three or four significant figures are usually enough. Engineering, science and trade documents may need more, and rounding should happen only at the end of a calculation.
For any value, use the Pounds to Kati (catty) Converter or browse all weight converters.
Run your own numbers: Pounds to Kati (catty) Converter