View synonyms for

rule of thumb

noun

a general or approximate principle, procedure, or rule based on experience or practice, as opposed to a specific, scientific calculation or estimate.
a rough, practical method of procedure.

rule of thumb

noun

1. a rough and practical approach, based on experience, rather than a scientific or precise one based on theory
2. ( as modifier )
  a rule-of-thumb decision

rule of thumb

A practical principle that comes from the wisdom of experience and is usually but not always valid: “When playing baseball, a good rule of thumb is to put your best hitter fourth in the batting order.”

Discover More

Word History and Origins

Origin of rule of thumb¹

First recorded in 1685–95

Discover More

Idioms and Phrases

A rough and useful principle or method, based on experience rather than precisely accurate measures. For example, His work with the youth group is largely by rule of thumb. This expression alludes to making rough estimates of measurements by using one's thumb. [Second half of 1600s]

Discover More

Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

But there is a rough rule of thumb.

From

“I would say in the interest of just being as risk free as possible, two hours, at least, seems like a good rule of thumb.”

From

A good rule of thumb is to have your sugar solution fill approximately three quarters to an inch of your saucepan.

From

There’s no agreed-upon rule of thumb for when you need to call a professional cleaner or damage repair service, but your proximity to the flames and the length of exposure can be key.

From

Another rule of thumb is to keep raw meat and poultry away from other foods to minimize cross contamination.

From

Related Words

criterion��

rule of three rule out

Browse