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, wrap bigleaf and oakleaf hydrangeas in burlap when air temperatures are expected to fall below 15°F.
—
Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2026
Jim’s rule of thumb is that members should complete about one hour of homework per holding per week.
—Zev Fima, CNBC, 30 Dec. 2025
But leaving a half hour or so after dessert or tea is served is a good rule of thumb, Meier said.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 25 Dec. 2025
But Flowers said his rule of thumb is for hunters to expect a third of the deer's total weight to be returned for consumption.
—Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 28 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 Jan. 2026
Jim’s rule of thumb is that members should complete about one hour of homework per holding per week.
—Zev Fima, CNBC, 30 Dec. 2025
But leaving a half hour or so after dessert or tea is served is a good rule of thumb, Meier said.
—Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 25 Dec. 2025
But Flowers said his rule of thumb is for hunters to expect a third of the deer's total weight to be returned for consumption.
—Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 28 Nov. 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 8 Jan. 2026.
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