rule of thumb

noun phrase

1

: a method of procedure based on experience and common sense

2

: a general principle regarded as roughly correct but not intended to be scientifically accurate

Examples of rule of thumb in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The rule of thumb for a Recession is two sequential negative GDP quarters. —Robert Barone, Forbes.com, 31 Mar. 2025

One gallon per-person, per-day is the rule of thumb. —Wes Siler, Outside Online, 27 Mar. 2025

Ideally, a deep clean once a year is a good rule of thumb. —Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 15 Mar. 2025

My rule of thumb here is the 10 client rule, meaning no single client should contribute more than 10% of revenue. —Rhea Karo, Forbes, 10 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rule of thumb

• abomasum
• become
• checksum
• humdrum
• income
• outcome
• succumb
• therefrom
• wherefrom
• bum
• chum
• come

Kids Definition

rule of thumb

1

: a method based on experience and common sense

2

: a general principle that is roughly correct