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
Putting an outlet every six feet is a good rule of thumb.
—
Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2026
When considering plant pairings, a good rule of thumb is to coordinate colors and contrast textures.
—Johanna Silver, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Mar. 2026
As a rule of thumb, water your vegetable garden two to three times per week.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 4 Mar. 2026
While customs vary by destination, a good rule of thumb is $3 to $5 per night for standard hotels and $5 to $10 for luxury stays.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for rule of thumb
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Lew Sichelman, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2026
When considering plant pairings, a good rule of thumb is to coordinate colors and contrast textures.
—Johanna Silver, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Mar. 2026
As a rule of thumb, water your vegetable garden two to three times per week.
—Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 4 Mar. 2026
While customs vary by destination, a good rule of thumb is $3 to $5 per night for standard hotels and $5 to $10 for luxury stays.
—Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 3 Mar. 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 13 Mar. 2026.
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