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
These days, many medical experts agree that age 40 is the rule of thumb — but their patients don't necessarily know that.
—
Jamie Ducharme, Health, 5 May 2026
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
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Jamie Ducharme, Health, 5 May 2026
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
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 12 May. 2026.
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