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
In any industry, there are general guidelines often referred to as rules of thumb.
—
Andrew Rosen, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024
Nguyen says the rule of thumb most chefs follow is to leave bacon grease in the freezer for up to a year.
—Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2024
As a rule of thumb, start with the lowest dose and increase gradually if necessary.
—Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2024
My rule of thumb is 10 liters of space for every three hours of hiking, but REI also has this handy How to Choose a Backpack guide.
—Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 8 Sep. 2024
See all Example Sentences for rule of thumb 
Andrew Rosen, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024
Nguyen says the rule of thumb most chefs follow is to leave bacon grease in the freezer for up to a year.
—Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 10 Sep. 2024
As a rule of thumb, start with the lowest dose and increase gradually if necessary.
—Elizabeth Barnes, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2024
My rule of thumb is 10 liters of space for every three hours of hiking, but REI also has this handy How to Choose a Backpack guide.
—Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 8 Sep. 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.
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“Rule of thumb.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/rule%20of%20thumb. Accessed 28 Sep. 2024.
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