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
Here’s a good rule of thumb (or paw): Place your hand flat on the pavement.
—
Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2024
An old rule of thumb among investors is to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.
—Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 6 Aug. 2024
As a rule of thumb, the more local and present the owner, the more likely the home will be well run.
—Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 23 July 2024
But a good rule of thumb is to use a pillow that fills the gap between your shoulder and ear, as this helps align your neck and spine, says Craig Hensley, associate professor of physical therapy and human movement sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
—Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 24 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb 
Ryan Fonseca, Los Angeles Times, 12 Aug. 2024
An old rule of thumb among investors is to be fearful when others are greedy and greedy when others are fearful.
—Christiaan Hetzner, Fortune, 6 Aug. 2024
As a rule of thumb, the more local and present the owner, the more likely the home will be well run.
—Tribune News Service, The Mercury News, 23 July 2024
But a good rule of thumb is to use a pillow that fills the gap between your shoulder and ear, as this helps align your neck and spine, says Craig Hensley, associate professor of physical therapy and human movement sciences at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.
—Jamie Friedlander Serrano, TIME, 24 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'rule of thumb.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near rule of thumb
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“Rule of thumb.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20thumb. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.
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