Because it is called seven in the evening at 21:00

We often find ourselves in moments where we need to clarify what time it is. Some instances may arise due to scheduling conflicts, work meetings, or simply trying to organize our daily activities. However, one peculiar aspect of our common language is the concept of time, specifically when it comes to expressing it in phrases like “seven in the evening” when referring to 21:00.

The phrase “seven in the evening” may sound somewhat contradictory at first glance. After all, how can both the numbers seven and twenty-one refer to the same hour? The explanation lies within the differences between two popular time systems: the 12-hour and the 24-hour.

The 12-hour clock is the most commonly used method in English-speaking countries, especially in everyday conversations. This system divides the day into two halves: a.m. and p.m. (ante meridiem and post meridiem, meaning before and after noon, respectively). This system is believed to originate from the ancient Egyptian civilization, where sundials were first used as a means of telling time during the day. As time progressed, mechanical clocks and watches were invented, solidifying the 12-hour system as the norm.

On the other hand, the 24-hour clock, also known as the military time system, is widely used for international communication and in specific professional fields such as aviation, healthcare, and the military. This system eliminates the need for distinguishing between a.m. and p.m., as it assigns a unique number to each hour of the day.

Now, let’s circle back to the phrase “seven in the evening.” At 21:00, a person using the 12-hour system would typically refer to this time as “seven in the evening” to avoid confusion. By using the word “evening,” it clarifies that this particular hour is past noon and well into the later part of the day. This unique nomenclature allows people to convey the correct time effectively, especially when there may be multiple time-sensitive events occurring at once.

While it may seem unusual or even confusing to outsiders, native English speakers effortlessly understand the meaning behind this phrase. It has become ingrained in our everyday language, serving as a way to indicate the time of day accurately while adhering to the widely accepted 12-hour system.

Additionally, associating 21:00 with “seven in the evening” adds a touch of familiarity and comfort to our daily lives. It helps us visualize the time more intuitively, making it easier to plan and organize our various commitments. Moreover, it enhances the convenience of scheduling and coordinating activities with friends, family, and colleagues who may not be accustomed to the 24-hour system.

In conclusion, the phrase “seven in the evening” at 21:00 is an example of how language adapts to cultural and historical contexts. It represents the harmonious coexistence of the 12-hour and 24-hour time systems, enabling effective communication in various settings. Next time you encounter this seemingly contradictory phrase, remember that it is merely a linguistic device used to convey time accurately, ensuring smooth daily interactions in our ever-connected world.