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
The rule of thumb is not to exceed an image scale of around 1920 x 1080, as this will result in an overall degradation of your image.
—
Josh Dury, Space.com, 30 Apr. 2025
The exact spacing varies according to the species and cultivar being grown, but a handy rule of thumb is to set low-growing hedge plants (3-4 feet tall) about two feet apart within rows.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2025
Most manufacturers will label what size bathroom a unit is rated for, but a good rule of thumb is to have at least 1 cfm (cubic feet per minute) for each square foot in the bathroom.
—Molly Blanco, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2025
Should curtains touch the floor, or is there another rule of thumb to keep in mind?
—Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 1 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Josh Dury, Space.com, 30 Apr. 2025
The exact spacing varies according to the species and cultivar being grown, but a handy rule of thumb is to set low-growing hedge plants (3-4 feet tall) about two feet apart within rows.
—Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 25 Apr. 2025
Most manufacturers will label what size bathroom a unit is rated for, but a good rule of thumb is to have at least 1 cfm (cubic feet per minute) for each square foot in the bathroom.
—Molly Blanco, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 May 2025
Should curtains touch the floor, or is there another rule of thumb to keep in mind?
—Sarah Lyon, Southern Living, 1 May 2025
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 24 May. 2025.
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