What is the Abbreviation for Miles?

How do you abbreviate miles? There is one common way to abbreviate miles.

It is,

  • mi.

For example,

  • Tucson: 25 mi.

The plural abbreviation (mi.) of miles is understood, so there is no need to add “s” to indicate more than one mi.

When to Use This Abbreviation

This abbreviation is usually found on maps, on expense reports, and it is very common to see miles abbreviated to mi. just about any time they are referenced.

You might abbreviate the word miles to mi. on a road sign or a map with directions to a destination. It is also common to see such abbreviations in headlines or newspaper titles where space is a concern.

Outside of maps, business mileage reports, etc. the word is not abbreviated in general prose.

What Does Miles Mean?

definition of miDefinition of Miles: Miles is defined as a unit of linear measure equal to 5,280 feet, or 1,760 yards (approximately 1.609 kilometers; or more figuratively a great amount or a long way.

For example,

  • Greg turned in last month’s mileage with the current month as he has been non-stop traveling. The total reimbursable miles amount to 362
  • Your second demo tape is miles better than the first.

The word miles functions as a noun in the first sentence, as an adverb in the second.

Outside Examples of Miles

  • abbreviation of miles abbreviationChicago is about to become more cyclist friendly. On Monday, Mayor Rahm Emanuel announced plans to build 50 more miles of curb-protected bike lanes over the three years. –Chicago Sun-Times
  • But new research has found evidence of quakes deeper than 15 miles under the surface, in the upper mantle, an area where the rock is so hot that it is no longer brittle but creeps, moving around like an extremely hard honey. –Los Angeles Times

Summary: Miles Abbreviation

There is one common abbreviation of miles: mi., which also acts as plural form when abbreviated, eliminating the need to add an “s”.

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