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, Ruben Niebla maps out the rotation as far as three weeks out.
—
Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 May 2026
To err on the cautious side, two hours is a good rule of thumb.
—Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 30 Apr. 2026
Even aiming to divide them every 3 to 5 years isn't a good rule of thumb because some bulbs multiply faster than others.
—Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Apr. 2026
Saltman says a good rule of thumb is to just keep two to three linen sets per bed and two to three sets of towels per person.
—Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 16 Apr. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 1 May 2026
To err on the cautious side, two hours is a good rule of thumb.
—Jessica Safavimehr, Southern Living, 30 Apr. 2026
Even aiming to divide them every 3 to 5 years isn't a good rule of thumb because some bulbs multiply faster than others.
—Andy Wilcox, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Apr. 2026
Saltman says a good rule of thumb is to just keep two to three linen sets per bed and two to three sets of towels per person.
—Tessa Cooper, The Spruce, 16 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 6 May. 2026.
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