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

Hang It at Eye Level Art curators and designers alike agree that in most situations, hanging art at eye level is a good rule of thumb. — Tessa Cooper, Southern Living, 1 Aug. 2026

The production’s rule of thumb became trying to execute scenes practically, in front of a lens, wherever possible. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 30 July 2026

LaValle’s rule of thumb is to choose the method of delivery that shows the most effectiveness clinically, or in studies. — Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 24 July 2026

Move at night, but end hard efforts an hour before bed, and let your own sleep data — not a decades-old rule of thumb — decide what stays in your routine. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson july 23, Miami Herald, 23 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1658, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for rule of thumb

• abomasum
• become
• checksum
• humdrum
• income
• outcome
• pisum
• succumb
• therefrom
• wherefrom
• bum
• chum

Kids Definition

rule of thumb

1

: a method based on experience and common sense

2

: a general principle that is roughly correct