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
As a rule of thumb, most adult cats should eat about ¼ cup of dry food twice daily but that can vary depending on the food, calories consumed, activity, and more.
—
Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 1 Mar. 2026
As a rule of thumb, wait until late spring to sow warm-season grass seed, after the threat of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026
Last Frost Dates While there’s no exact date to reliably turn on your sprinkler system after winter, a good rule of thumb is the average last frost date for your area, says Josh Leclair, owner of Village Home Services.
—Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 27 Feb. 2026
Dermatologists recommend starting slowly (every other night is a good rule of thumb) and using a moisturizer to support the skin barrier, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
—Allison Palmer
updated February 25, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Dr. John De Jong, Boston Herald, 1 Mar. 2026
As a rule of thumb, wait until late spring to sow warm-season grass seed, after the threat of frost has passed and soil temperatures are consistently above 65°F.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026
Last Frost Dates While there’s no exact date to reliably turn on your sprinkler system after winter, a good rule of thumb is the average last frost date for your area, says Josh Leclair, owner of Village Home Services.
—Louise Parks, Martha Stewart, 27 Feb. 2026
Dermatologists recommend starting slowly (every other night is a good rule of thumb) and using a moisturizer to support the skin barrier, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
—Allison Palmer
updated February 25, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 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 7 Mar. 2026.
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