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
While prices do vary, a good rule of thumb is around $35,000 for a decent kamikaze drone.
—
Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 4 Apr. 2026
The speed of the OMG particle actually violates a cosmic rule of thumb used by particle astrophysicists.
—Phil Plait, Scientific American, 3 Apr. 2026
That’s nearly double the industry’s rule of thumb.
—Charlotte Observer, 3 Apr. 2026
But usually a quarter cup of water is a good rule of thumb once a week.
—Ryan Conner, Dallas Morning News, 1 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Christopher McFadden, Interesting Engineering, 4 Apr. 2026
The speed of the OMG particle actually violates a cosmic rule of thumb used by particle astrophysicists.
—Phil Plait, Scientific American, 3 Apr. 2026
That’s nearly double the industry’s rule of thumb.
—Charlotte Observer, 3 Apr. 2026
But usually a quarter cup of water is a good rule of thumb once a week.
—Ryan Conner, Dallas Morning News, 1 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for 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 8 Apr. 2026.
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