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
Another good rule of thumb is to drink half your body weight in oz.
—
Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 21 Oct. 2024
Her rule of thumb is that your hood should extend past your range or cooktop by 4-6 inches or 2-3 inches on each side.
—Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2024
Your rule of thumb: FinCEN deadlines for FBAR filings will be the same as the IRS deadlines.
—Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024
Choosing camping gear that’s durable, versatile, and comfortable is always a good rule of thumb to follow.
—Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 25 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb 
Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 21 Oct. 2024
Her rule of thumb is that your hood should extend past your range or cooktop by 4-6 inches or 2-3 inches on each side.
—Quincy Bulin, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2024
Your rule of thumb: FinCEN deadlines for FBAR filings will be the same as the IRS deadlines.
—Kelly Phillips Erb, Forbes, 12 Oct. 2024
Choosing camping gear that’s durable, versatile, and comfortable is always a good rule of thumb to follow.
—Kevin Brouillard, Travel + Leisure, 25 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rule of thumb.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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“Rule of thumb.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20thumb. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
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