The terms “AM” and “PM” are used to indicate time of day, with “AM” referring to the time between 12 midnight and 12 noon and “PM” referring to the time between 12 noon and 12 midnight. The terms are derived from Latin phrases, “ante meridiem” (before midday) and “post meridiem” (after midday), respectively.
When we use the term “PM,” we are referring to the time of day after 12 noon and before 12 midnight. This time period spans 12 hours and is often divided into two segments: the afternoon and the evening.
The afternoon, which generally spans from 12 noon to around 6 PM, is a period of the day that is associated with productivity and activity. Many people work during this time, and schools and universities are often in session. Additionally, businesses and stores are usually open, and people are often engaged in shopping, running errands, and other activities.
The evening, which spans from around 6 PM to 12 midnight, is a time of day that is associated with relaxation and leisure. Many people use this time to wind down from a busy day and engage in activities like watching television, reading a book, or spending time with family and friends. Additionally, restaurants and bars are often busy during this time as people go out to socialize and enjoy a meal or drinks.
One of the key benefits of using the AM/PM system is that it allows for easy communication of time. For example, if someone says that they have a meeting at 2 PM, everyone understands that the meeting is scheduled for the afternoon. Similarly, if someone says that they are meeting a friend at 8 PM, it is clear that the meeting is scheduled for the evening.
However, the use of the AM/PM system can also be confusing, particularly for individuals who are not familiar with the system. For example, someone who is used to a 24-hour clock system may not understand the distinction between 12 noon and 12 midnight, as both times are referred to as “12:00” in the 12-hour clock system. Additionally, the AM/PM system can be confusing for individuals who are not fluent in the language of the country in which they are located, as the terms “ante meridiem” and “post meridiem” may not be familiar to them.
Despite these potential drawbacks, the AM/PM system remains widely used throughout the world, particularly in countries where English is spoken as a first or second language. It provides a simple and intuitive way of communicating time, and its use is unlikely to be supplanted by any other system in the near future.
In conclusion, the term “PM” refers to the time of day between 12 noon and 12 midnight. This time period spans 12 hours and is often divided into two segments: the afternoon and the evening. The use of the AM/PM system provides a simple and intuitive way of communicating time, but it can be confusing for individuals who are not familiar with the system or who are not fluent in the language of the country in which they are located.
