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 is that your urine should be clear in color.
—
Nicole Villalpando, Austin American-Statesman, 19 Dec. 2024
This is a rule of thumb often cited by financial planners.
—Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 13 Dec. 2024
Sticking to vases under six inches is a good rule of thumb to prevent your centerpieces from blocking conversation and eye contact.
—Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 12 Dec. 2024
The rule of thumb people typically followed was the two-month salary guideline—which was created during the Great Depression, when diamond sales weren't doing too well and De Beers, a leading diamond company, sought to improve the situation.
—Gia Yetikyel, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb 
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Nicole Villalpando, Austin American-Statesman, 19 Dec. 2024
This is a rule of thumb often cited by financial planners.
—Greg Iacurci, CNBC, 13 Dec. 2024
Sticking to vases under six inches is a good rule of thumb to prevent your centerpieces from blocking conversation and eye contact.
—Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 12 Dec. 2024
The rule of thumb people typically followed was the two-month salary guideline—which was created during the Great Depression, when diamond sales weren't doing too well and De Beers, a leading diamond company, sought to improve the situation.
—Gia Yetikyel, Vogue, 3 Dec. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb
Dictionary Entries Near rule of thumb
Cite this Entry
“Rule of thumb.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20thumb. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.
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