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 rule of thumb is that AI can make something seem to be absolutely correct, even though the response is flawed.
—
Lance Eliot, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024
In a conflict zone, the legal rule of thumb is that the greater the military advantage conferred by a targeted killing, the greater the permissible civilian harm.
—Anna Mulrine Grobe, The Christian Science Monitor, 15 Oct. 2024
According to Taylor, a good rule of thumb is to go a little darker than your natural lip color.
—Alyssa Brascia, People.com, 10 Oct. 2024
How to protect yourself Here are five rules of thumb to follow to avoid being duped.
—Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 19 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb 
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Lance Eliot, Forbes, 22 Oct. 2024
In a conflict zone, the legal rule of thumb is that the greater the military advantage conferred by a targeted killing, the greater the permissible civilian harm.
—Anna Mulrine Grobe, The Christian Science Monitor, 15 Oct. 2024
According to Taylor, a good rule of thumb is to go a little darker than your natural lip color.
—Alyssa Brascia, People.com, 10 Oct. 2024
How to protect yourself Here are five rules of thumb to follow to avoid being duped.
—Megan Cerullo, CBS News, 19 Sep. 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 14 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share